Fire News Kentucky 3-26

Hazard Called to Assist Jake’s Branch

Firefighters were dispatched to a residential fire close to Richard Everage Auto Sales.

See story on page 6

Louisville FD Responds to a Two-Alarm Fire

Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire on the top floor of a vacant church community center.

See story on page 7

Hazard Saves Exposures

A working structure fire was deemed under control and units began extinguishing hot spots.

See story on page 9

Car into Building in Georgetown

Crews responded to a report an MVA that had driven into a commercial building.

See story on page 11

Structure Fire on West Chestnut Street

Fire companies were dispatched and arrived on scene encountering heavy fire conditions.

See story on page 14

Tribute Hebron Fire Protection District’s Harvey F. Pelley

See story on page 22

Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973

FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO

TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer

GARY P. JOYCE, Editor

MYLES QUINN, Long Island Editor

MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production

LYNN SEDLER, Art Director

CLIFF CHIESA, Production Manager

BARBARA CONNOLLY, Vice President National Sales

SUZANNE BANCROFT, Business Development Manager

BRYAN LOPEZ, Editorial Assistant

GREG JONES, Graphic Artist

DENNIS WHITTAM, Editor Emeritus

FOR MORE INFORMATION, (631) 776-0500 Advertising: Ext 3, Editorial: Ext 281 or LI@firenews.com

Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions

Long Island, New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Connecticut, Maine, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, Rhode Island, Vermont, Kentucky, Maryland, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, S. Carolina, Virginia, Washington DC, West Virginia, and Wildwood, NJ

Proud Member Of:

Letters to the Editor, byline articles, and columns represent the opinions of the writers and photographers and are not necessarily the views of the Fire News. We reserve the right to edit all of the above. We are not responsible for errors in advertisements beyond the cost of advertising space. Copy submitted is subject to editing for space requirements. The placing of an advertisement in this publication does not constitute endorsement. Contents are copyrighted. Editorial and advertising copy cannot be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Fire News is published monthly by Fire News Inc, with corporate offices at 146 South Country Road, Bellport, NY 11713.

Business Directory

pages 15-16

page 16

page 18

page 18 Industry News

page 22

page 20 Focus of the Month

Corbin FD Responds to Ford Avenue Fire

At approximately 0200 hours Corbin Fire Department responded to a structure fire on Ford Avenue. Firefighters suppressed the fire and ventilated smoke from the structure. No injuries were reported. Corbin Police and Knox County EMS also responded.

- Photo courtesy of Corbin FD

Corydon Responds to Field/Brush/ Woods Fire

Corydon Civil Defense Fire and Rescue responded to a field/brush/woods fire in the Alzey River bottoms, in Henderson County.

- Fire News photo by Bryan Coghill

Hopkinsville

Landfill Fire

On January 22, 2026 at 0758 hours, Hopkinsville Fire and EMS operated at a fire located at the Hopkinsville landfill. The plume of smoke could be seen for miles. Two stations were on-scene and provided support to heavy equipment operators as they worked to move dirt and contain the fire. There were no life safety or exposure threats.

- Photo courtesy of Hopkinsville Fire & EMS

Quick Work at Walnut Grove Ave. Fire

On January 28, 2026 at 1808 hours, Pleasure Ridge Park Fire along with Shively Fire and Rescue and Louisville Fire Department were dispatched to the 4700 block of Walnut Grove Avenue for a structure fire. Crews made quick work considering the frigid temps. No injuries were reported at the scene.

- Photo courtesy of Pleasure Ridge Park Fire District & EMS Captain Lanette Mudd

Hazard Called to Assist Jake’s Branch

Just after 0500 hours, the Hazard Fire Department (HFD) was dispatched via mutual aid to assist Jake’s Branch Fire Department on a residential fire close to Richard Everage Auto Sales. Tanker 2 responded from headquarters to assist, as well as Chief Keith and other off-duty fire units. Several off-duty HFD and Jake’s Branch dual units arrived on scene and began a rapid victim search inside the structure due to reports of possible occupant’s vehicles being in the driveway; no one was found. Shortly after a primary search was performed, attack lines were deployed from Jake’s Branch Engine 150 to combat the blaze and Tanker 2 arrived to provide water supply. Tanker 2’s crew entered the structure through the front door,

while Jake’s Branch members entered the rear door and made a swift interior attack on the blaze, eventually reaching near extinguishment at approximately 0530. Strong combined work from both departments resulted in complete extinguishment, salvaging some of the home and some of the homeowner’s belongings. We take pride in our partnerships with Jake’s Branch, as well as our other neighboring departments that respond to fires and train with us. These good working relationships only benefit the people we serve better and ensure we accomplish our number-one goal: everyone goes home. Great work by all companies involved.

- Photos courtesy of Hazard FD

Louisville FD Responds to Vacant Community Center Fire

At approximately 0225 hours on December 13, 2025, the Louisville Fire Department responded to reports of smoke in the area of the 1300 block of Catalpa Street. Upon arrival, crews encountered heavy fire on the top floor of a vacant church community center. The incident was quickly upgraded to a two-alarm fire, and a defensive operation was initiated. Firefighters deployed multiple master streams to bring the fire under control by 0500. A total of 49 firefighters, supported by eight engines and four trucks, worked diligently to contain the fire to the building of origin. The cause of the fire remained under investigation. Additional companies were called in for relief and fire watch operations.

- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD

No Pleasure for Pleasure Ridge FFs

On January 29, 2026, just after midnight, Pleasure Ridge Park Fire was dispatched along with Louisville Fire Department and Shively Fire and Rescue to Highland Park Baptist Church on Shanks Lane to a report of a structure fire. Multiple calls were received prior to our arrival. Fire crews were not only battling the heavy fire conditions but extreme cold. During these cold weather incidents TARC

is called to the scene for a warm shelter for our crews to rehab. A salt truck from Metro Works was also utilized to combat the water runoff that was turning to ice. The final fire crews cleared today, around noon.

- Photos courtesy of Please Ridge Park Fire District & EMS Captain Lanette Mudd

Hazard Saves Exposures

The Hazard Fire Department Assistant Chief Pratt took a call reporting a possible bonfire type fire burning near a property off High Street. Upon leaving the station to investigate, Chief Pratt noted heavy smoke in the area and advised 911 to dispatch Hazard Fire for a possible structure fire. Upon arrival, Shift 2 officers confirmed a working structure fire. Attack lines were deployed to the home and rapid interior attack was initiated. Due to the number of homes in close proximity to the fire home, Fire Chief Keith dispatched Tanker 2 to Broadway Street to protect the exposures. Within the first hour of operations the fire was deemed under control, and Hazard units began overhauling the structure extinguishing hot spots and confirming all fire was out. Several structures in the direct vicinity of the fire building sustained small amounts of heat and fire damage but all surrounding structures were deemed safe. Hazard Police was on scene to assist with crowd and scene control. Emergency Management assisted the occupants with safe boarding for the night. - Photos courtesy of Hazard FD

Cover Story

Working Fire on Christmas Day

While many were celebrating Christmas Day with family and friends, Georgetown Fire Department, along with SCFD, responded to a structure fire. Thanks to the quick actions and teamwork of our crews, the fire was brought under control without any injuries

reported. Thank you to everyone who served on Christmas Day, and to our partners who assisted on scene.

- Photos courtesy of Georgetown FD

Car into Building in Georgetown

Georgetown Fire Department (GFD) crews responded to a report an MVA that had driven into a commercial building. The impact pinned a patient inside the facility against a wall. Prior to our arrival, another individual inside the building was able to assist in removing the pinned person who was transported to the hospital with minor injuries. Once crews arrived, the individual inside the vehicle was safely extricated. Due to structural compromise caused by the impact, GFD Structural Collapse Technicians, along with supporting crew members, constructed and placed a T-shore on scene to help stabilize the compromised opening until a full structural assessment could be completed.

- Photos courtesy of Georgetown FD

Structure Fire –2500 Block of West Chestnut Street

On January 29, 2026, the Louisville Fire Department responded to a significant residential structure fire in the 2500 block of West Chestnut Street. Fire companies were dispatched at 1806 hours. and arrived within four minutes, encountering heavy fire conditions with flames extending to upper floors and threatening nearby homes.

Crews initiated an aggressive fire attack using multiple handlines and one master stream, working to confine the fire and prevent further spread. A total of 36 firefighters, operating from five engine companies, three truck companies,and two battalion chiefs brought the incident under control at approximately 1900. Additional resources, including an extra engine and truck, were requested to support suppression operations.

The cause of the fire was under investigation, and the Louisville Fire Department’s Arson Bureau assisted in the investigation.

- Photos courtesy of Louisville FD

Hazard Rope Rescue Techs Make Save

A call came into Hazard Fire headquarters about an animal in need of rescue from a cliff face along KY Highway 15. Two of Hazard’s rope rescue technician team members responded to the scene and assisted. Shift 2 Chief Deon Pratt and Lieutenant Jacob Smith respond with Technical Rescue 3 and equipment to get rigged up

and attempt the rescue. Lt. Smith rappelled down the cliff and was able to rig a hasty harness to the animal and assist it back up to the edge. The animal sustained injuries possibly related to incident, but was returned safely to its environment.

- Photos courtesy of Hazard FD

Louisville Trains at KFC Yum! Center

Low Angle Rescue Training for Henderson

Henderson Fire Department crews recently completed basic rope and low-angle rescue training. The training consisted of knot tying competitions and rescue scenarios on the riverfront.

- Photos courtesy of Henderson FD

Looking Back

The Bluegrass Stockyards Fire

January 30, 2026 marked the 10th anniversary of the Bluegrass Stockyards fire, the most significant fire incident many in Lexington can remember. The response required a multi-alarm operation with more than 100 firefighters, extensive apparatus deployment, and sustained operations over many hours.

Crews faced heavy fire conditions, large commercial structures, water supply challenges, and rapidly changing fire behavior. Success depended on incident command, accountability and disciplined tactics at every level. Firefighters executed large-scale defensive operations, protected exposures, and adjusted strategy as conditions evolved, all while maintaining firefighter safety.

The Bluegrass Stockyards fire became a defining incident for our department, reinforcing the value of training, preparedness and operational readiness for large-scale emergencies. The lessons learned that day continue to influence how we plan, train, and respond today.

Large incidents don’t happen often, but when they do, performance matters. - Photos courtesy of Lexington FD

Hazard FD Begins its 101st Year in 2026

The Hazard Fire Department was organized in 1913, and consisted of volunteers who began with a hand-drawn cart to transport fire hose to connect to hydrants to battle fires within town. Later on, a model T Ford truck was obtained and the hose cart was sold to Fleming Neon to begin a fire department.

It has been told that the Model T Ford was kept in a building in Walkertown on North Main at the School Street intersection.

The department was reorganized in 1924, and construction of a building was begun on East Main. A motorized Seagrave fire pumper was ordered and delivered in October of that year. The construction of the building was completed in early 1925, and was used as the Fire Department, City Hall, and City Jail.

In 1939, the department became a combination paid/volunteer department. The first paid Chief was Justin Ware, who also served as the Police Chief. The Fire Chief also was the city jailer, and the firemen were deputy jailers

Over the years as the city grew, so did its fire protection, and the building would be enlarged several times. Eventually city hall would move to High Street, The building also provided space for the police department a few times in between permanent quarters to house them.

In 1978, the jail and city police court would end, and those spaces were absorbed as part of the fire department.

The original firehouse was used until 1993, and was torn down and the current house was built and opened in October 1993. For 101 years Hazard is still going strong on the corner of East Main and Cornell. - Photos courtesy of Hazard FD

Same Crew, 2 Days, 2 Lives Saved

It's not every day that you can say you saved a life, and it’s even rarer to do it two days in a row. However, that’s precisely what the crew from EC9 on 2nd Platoon can proudly claim. Last week, during two separate runs on back-to-back days, they were credited with two life-saving incidents.

In the first case, a man who had just run five miles while training for a marathon experienced chest pain. He was alert and talking upon arrival, but coded en route to the hospital. The crew from EC9 quickly intervened, and a member from the E21 crew hopped in with the patient, who was in torsades de pointes (TdP, a rare, life-threatening form of a fast heart rhythm). The crew administered multiple shocks and several doses of different medications. They had already activated a STEMI alert, and when the patient coded, and had communicated with a cardiologist who was waiting at the bedside upon arrival. Thanks to their efforts, the patient achieved return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and was swiftly taken to the cath lab.

On the next duty day, the same crew responded to another critical situation. Engine 22 responded to a critically ill patient and immediately briefed EC9’s crew on the situation. Along with a member of E22, EC9 transported the patient who was experiencing STEMI and went into ventricular fibrillation five times en route to the emergency room. The patient was defibrillated five times, and a lidocaine drip was started once they arrived at the hospital.

Both patients are expected to make a full recovery. Great job to EC9 for their remarkable work!

- Photo courtesy of Lexington FD

Corydon’s Santa and Sirens Event

Corydon Civil Defense Fire and Rescue visited the North Pole to bring Santa to the fire station, for the yearly Santa and Sirens event. The department parades Santa around town, then Santa stops at the department to hand out gifts to the kids and take photos. The event is sponsored by the department and the City of Corydon.

- Fire News photos by Bryan Coghill

New Apparatus for Russellville Rural FD

EX-CHIEF BOB KUTCH JOINS KONSTANT DESIGN

After 30+ years of sales and service experience, to continue providing the Fire Service with the quality of products and attention you need and expect, I have made the decision to join the Konstant Design team as of January 1, 2026.

Konstant Design is known for excellent service and attention to detail in the custom apparel design and manufacturing industry. Whether your department is celebrating a wet down for a new vehicle, hosting a local or regional parade or honoring a fallen brother or sister, we stand ready to work with you to design a top quality garment.

I look forward to continuing my many valued, existing relationships and to bringing new customers on board as we move forward together to honor the service of our brother and sister firefighters.

Konstant Design –Premium Apparel. Bold Designs. Built to Perform.

KUSSMAUL ELECTRONICS WELCOMES DAMON LEWIS AS VICE PRESIDENT OF SALES

Kussmaul Electronics proudly announces the appointment of Damon Lewis as Vice President of Sales, effective December 2025. This strategic leadership addition reflects Kussmaul’s continued commitment to the Emergency Vehicle industry and its future growth. Damon brings more than two decades of experience in the Emergency Vehicle industry and is widely recognized for his ability to foster long‐term customer relationships, lead high‐performing sales teams, and drive strategic growth. He has held senior roles in sales and business development at Whelen Engineering, Code 3, and Fouts Bros., serving both domestic and international markets across Fire and EMS segments.

His leadership background, combined with technical product expertise and a deep understanding of operational challenges, makes Damon uniquely equipped to understand the evolving needs of the industry and deliver practical, effective solutions. In his new role at Kussmaul, Damon will lead the company’s sales team and commercial strategy across North America and international markets, with a focus on customer experience, growth, and strengthened relationships across the Emergency Vehicle industry. He will work closely with OEMs, dealers, and departments to expand the company’s market presence while upholding the high standards of quality and service that Kussmaul is known for. Additionally, Damon will serve as Vice President of International Sales for MCE Vehicle Power, where he will work closely with Xantrex, one of Kussmaul’s sister companies, to strengthen the division’s global presence. “We’re excited to welcome Damon to the Kussmaul leadership team,” said Dale Tompkins, President of Vehicle Power at MCE. “His experience, integrity, and customer‐first mindset align perfectly with our mission to support those who serve.”

Damon’s appointment marks an important step forward in Kussmaul’s commitment to providing dependable, innovative power solutions that keep emergency vehicles energized and ready when seconds count.

For media inquiries or additional information, please contact:

Valeria Donoghue Marketing Manager valeria.donoghue@mce‐llc.com

Russellville Rural Fire Department just took possession of their new pumper/tanker. The build was done by FDS&S/Victory-Southeast Apparatus. The new apparatus is a 2026 Freightliner M2 106 Extreme Duty. A roll in ceremony and blessing of the truck was held recently. This is the first custom build the department has ever purchased. It was designed by the firefighters. To say they are proud of it is an understatement.

- Fire News photo by Cherly Allen

CONGRESS PASSES LEGISLATION PROVIDING CANCER BENEFITS TO FAMILIES OF FALLEN PUBLIC SAFETY OFFICERS

National Fallen Firefighters Foundation applauds lawmakers for including the Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act as key provision in 2026 National Defense Authorization Act.

Honor Act ensures families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled due to certain service-related cancers can receive federal benefits.

EMMITSBURG, MD (December 17, 2025) — Congress has approved legislation that extends line-of-duty death and disability benefits to the families of public safety officers who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty.

The Honoring Our Fallen Heroes Act, which was included as part of the Fiscal Year 2026 National Defense Authorization Act, expands the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits (PSOB) program to include certain occupational cancers. The PSOB program provides one-time financial payments to the families of firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders who have died or become permanently disabled in the line of duty, as well as educational benefits to the spouses and children of fallen officers.

“On behalf of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, I applaud the House and Senate for passing this important bipartisan legislation. I especially would like to thank Senator Amy Klobuchar, Senator Kevin Cramer, Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon, and Congressman Carlos Gimenez for leading this effort,” said Victor Stagnaro, CEO of the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation “Firefighters put their lives on the line every day to keep their communities safe. By recognizing fire service–related cancers under the PSOB program, we ensure that those who risk their health for others receive the support they and their families deserve. I especially want to thank our brave Fire Hero Families who tirelessly advocated for the passage of this vital legislation. Their dedication, passion, and tenacity are why this bill will soon become law.”

The legislation will now go to the White House for President Donald Trump to sign into law.

For more information on the Public Safety Officers’ Benefits Program, please visit: https://bja.ojp.gov/program/psob. For more information on the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation, please visit: https://www.firehero.org/.

CPR Saves Award

Leigh Riddle with Owensboro Health Regional Hospital (OHRH) recognized eight Owensboro Fire Department members for their life-saving actions during two separate CPR saves in recent months. Thanks to their quick response and teamwork, both patients later walked out of the hospital with no lasting deficits!vThose recognized were Captain Matt Cissell, Firefighter Nate Cunningham (not present), Firefighter Cody Ramburger, Lieutenant/Paramedic Jacob Seaton, Firefighter Andy Shively, Firefighter Sam Stevens, Firefighter/Paramedic Al Wathen, and Firefighter/ Paramedic Zerrick Wells.

- Photos courtesy of Owensboro FD

Hebron’s Harvey F. Pelley

It is with great sadness that the Hebron Fire Protection District shares the passing of former Fire Chief Harvey Pelley. Pelley passed away on December 24, 2025. He was 88-years old.

Chief Pelley dedicated 33 years of his life to the Hebron Fire Protection District, serving from 1955 to 1988, including 12 years as Fire Chief from 1973 to 1985. His commitment to this organization and to the communities we serve helped shape Hebron Fire into what it is today.

During Chief Pelley’s years of service, the Hebron area experienced significant growth and increasing demands for emergency services. Under his leadership, the department expanded its capabilities, modernized its apparatus, advanced emergency medical care, and laid the groundwork for long-term fiscal stability. He was instrumental during a pivotal era that ultimately led to the formation of the Hebron Fire Protection District, ensuring the department could continue serving the community without relying solely on donations and fundraising.

Chief Pelley was also a steward of our history. He authored the official history of the Hebron Fire Protection District, preserving the story of our humble beginnings, and documenting the milestones that transformed the department into a modern emergency service organization.

In recognition of his decades of dedication and leadership, Station 41 on North Bend Road was rededicated as the “Pelley Station” in 1995, an honor that stands as a lasting reminder of his impact on this department and community.

We extend our deepest condolences to Chief Pelley’s family, friends, and all who had the privilege of serving alongside him. His legacy lives on in our stations, our service, and the proud history of the Hebron Fire Protection District. - Photos courtesy of Hebron Fire Protection District