KENTUCKY Serving
Volume 5, No. 3
W W W.FIRENE WS .COM
Story on page 18. - Photos courtesy Lexington FD
Fire,Serving Rescue The Magazine Fire, Rescue Serving & EMS &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since 1973 & Since EMS Heroes 1973
September/October 2026
PRSRT STANDARD U.S. POSTAGE PAID HICKSVILLE NY PERMIT NO. 298
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 3
In this issue... Heavy Fire on Arrival at Louisville Vacant Home
Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973
Units were dispatched to find a vacant, two-story structure with heavy fire conditions visible from the front.
FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer
See story on page 6
Clay City Fire Requires Multiple Companies Firefighters arrived to find a home heavily involved in fire ignited by a grinder used inside the home. See story on page 8
Downtown Blaze Destroys Historic Landmark A rapidly advancing fire engulfed the historic Wilson’s Pool Room.
See story on page 9
Early Morning House Fire in Louisville Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from the front of an occupied single-family residence.
See story on page 11
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 COPYRIGHT 2026, THE FIRE NEWS INC., LONG ISLAND, NEW YORK. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED
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:
Hopkinsville Handles Interstate 24 MVA Crews responded to an MVA involving multiple vehicles with injuries. See story on page 12
Trapped Dog Rescued by Combined Effort A dog trapped in a buried concrete pipe on the south side of Lexington. See story on page 13
PLUS: Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 22 Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 22, 24-25 Business Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .page 24 Classifieds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 24 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 25
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.
Page 4, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Georgetown Water Heater Fire Georgetown Fire Department crews responded to a reported structure fire at an apartment complex. Upon arrival, firefighters observed smoke coming from a second-floor unit, though no visible flames were present. Crews quickly investigated and determined the source to be a faulty water heater. Firefighters isolated the unit and conducted a thorough check to ensure there was no fire extension. Thankfully, the situation was contained before it could escalate into a more serious incident. - Photo courtesy Georgetown FD
HazMat Mystery Bucket Spill Turns Out Okay At approximately 0700 hours on July 9, 2026, firefighters received notice of a possible hazardous materials incident near the Lovers Lane/Fort Campbell Boulevard intersection. A passerby noticed a five-gallon bucket tipped over, with liquid pouring out and smoking. Crews responded and shut down the northbound flow of traffic while they investigated. The cause turned out to be a bucket with an acid-based wash used on masonry block which was believed to have fallen off a truck traveling through the area. Although it appeared to be alarming, there was no threat to anyone. Solid waste was requested to the scene to properly dispose of the bucket. - Photos courtesy Hopkinsville Fire & EMS
Page 6, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Heavy Fire on Arrival at Louisville Vacant Home
The Louisville Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire on the 3700 block of West Broadway. Units were dispatched at approximately 0411 hours to find a vacant, two-story residential structure with heavy fire conditions visible from the front. Firefighters initiated an offensive interior attack, deploying four 1-¾-inch hose lines to bring the fire under control. A total of 26 firefighters responded, supported by four engine companies, two truck companies, two battalion chiefs, and a staff officer. The cause of the fire was under investigation with Louisville Fire Arson Bureau. - Photos courtesy Louisville FD
Page 8, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Clay City Fire Requires Multiple Companies
Powell County fire departments were toned out for a house fire on Main Street in Clay City. When Clay City firefighters arrived, they found the home heavily involved in fire, which reportedly started after an 80-year-old male used a grinder inside the home, causing the area to become hot enough to ignite. The situation became even more dangerous when the man refused to leave the home, but was eventu-
ally persuaded to exit safely by officer Billy Hood. Chief Eric Strange then took command of the incident. The heat from the flames, combined with the hot weather and heavy turnout gear, made conditions extremely dangerous for firefighters. EMS was on scene and immediately assisted in caring for firefighters. - Submitted by Lisa Johnson
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 9
7 Departments Battle 6-Alarm-Style Downtown Blaze That Destroys Historic Landmark
Firefighters from across central Kentucky converged on downtown Versailles on the morning of July 9, 2026, after a rapidly advancing fire engulfed the historic Wilson’s Pool Room and the apartments above it, resulting in the complete loss of one of the city’s most recognizable landmarks. The first alarm was dispatched shortly after 0600 hours for a reported structure fire on Lexington Street. Arriving companies encountered heavy fire extending through the mixed-use occupancy, with flames rapidly involving the upper floors and roof. The incident quickly escalated, prompting an extensive mutual aid response. A total of seven departments responded to the incident, providing additional engines, tankers, aerial apparatus, manpower, and command support. Initial responding agencies included departments from the Versailles, Woodford County, and Scott County, with additional regional departments responding under established mutual aid agreements. Firefighters operated for approximately six hours, battling heavy fire conditions while conducting defensive and exposure protection operations. Due to the extent of structural involvement, crews concentrated on containing the fire, extinguishing persistent hot spots, and protecting
adjacent commercial occupancies in the heart of the city’s historic downtown district before it could spread block-to-block. Officials credited the coordinated efforts of the responding companies with preventing a significantly larger downtown disaster. While Wilson’s Pool Room and the five apartments above it were declared a total loss, surrounding businesses were successfully protected from major fire extension. Five residents were displaced, one was transported for smoke inhalation, and one family pet was lost. The American Red Cross and local relief organizations immediately began assisting the displaced families with temporary housing and emergency needs. Wilson’s Pool Room had been a fixture in Versailles since 1955, becoming widely known throughout Kentucky for its legendary “Willy Burger” and generations of community gatherings. The destruction of the building represents not only a significant property loss but also the loss of an important piece of Woodford County history. Woodford County Judge-Executive James Kay praised the firefighters’ efforts, noting that their aggressive operations saved neighboring historic buildings and undoubtedly prevented further devastation. - Photos courtesy Frankfort Fire & EMS
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 11
Early Morning House Fire in Louisville
Louisville Fire Department crews responded to a reported structure fire in the 600 block of S. 36th Street at approximately 0556 hours on July 25, 2026. Firefighters arrived to find heavy fire showing from the front of an occupied single-family residence. Crews quickly deployed multiple handlines, entered the structure, and brought the fire under control at 0621. The fire was contained primarily to
the front portion of the structure. As a result of the incident, one adult resident and a cat were displaced. A total of 25 firefighters, including four engines, two ladder companies, and one battalion chief, responded. The Louisville Fire Department’s Arson Bureau was actively investigating. - Photos courtesy Louisville FD
Page 12, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Hopkinsville Handles Interstate 24 MVA
On July 16, 2026 at 1540 hours, Hopkinsville Fire and EMS is responded to an MVA involving multiple vehicles with injuries at the 72 milemarker of Interstate 24 east in Christian County. - Photo courtesy Hopkinsville Fire & EMS
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 13
Trapped Dog Rescued by Combined Effort Lexington-Fayette Animal Care and Control, concerned neighbors, and an anxious homeowner alerted Lexington Fire Department crews to a dog trapped in a buried concrete pipe on the south side of Lexington. Using a search camera and listening devices, crews located the dog and spent more than 2-½ hours carefully hand digging to reach it. Thanks to the teamwork and determination of everyone involved, the dog was safely rescued and was doing well. Sometimes - Photos courtesy Lexington FD a successful rescue has four legs and a wagging tail.
Page 16, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Louisville Responds to Early Morning Structure Fire
On June 19, 2026, the Louisville Fire Department responded to a structure fire on the 500 block of North 31st Street. Fire crews were dispatched at 0445 hours to find a vacant, single-story structure with heavy fire showing from the rear and extending into the attic space. Firefighters initiated an aggressive interior attack utilizing multiple handlines. Due to fire conditions, crews briefly transitioned to a defensive operation before returning to an offensive strategy. A total of 26 firefighters responded to the incident, operating with four engine companies, two truck companies, and one battalion chief. The fire was contained to the building of origin. Louisville Metro Arson was investigating the cause. - Photos courtesy Louisville FD
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 17
Wind Helps Owensboro Fire Spread
Owensboro Engine 1, 3 and 5, Ladder 5, Rescue 1 and Command 95 were dispatched for a large fire in the backyard of a home in the 2500 block of Lake Pointe. While en route, several more calls were received stating the fire was expanding and had made contact with multiple homes and storage buildings due to wind. On arrival, Engine 5 advised heavy black smoke coming from behind the given address and took command of the scene and additional units were called to assist. The fire originated in a smoldering fire pit next to
combustibles, spreading quickly to storage buildings then to nearby homes. Two homes on Elder Drive sustained heavy fire damage, one home on Elder Drive sustained minor heat damage, two homes on Lake Pointe sustained moderate fire damage and storage buildings in the rear of the homes along with the fence sustained fire damage. Thank you to our partners at OPD, Central Dispatch, Kenergy, Atmos and AMR for their assistance on scene. - Photo courtesy Owensboro FD
Page 18, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Cover Story
Lexington TR Team Gets Horse Back on Its Hooves Lexington Fire Department Rescue crews were called to the Kentucky Horse Park to assist veterinarians with a horse that was down and unable to stand. Working alongside Horse Park staff, veterinarians, and the horse’s owners, crews used specialized lifting equipment to support and raise the animal safely. After receiving veterinary care and approximately 10 minutes of assisted support, the horse was able to stand on its own and walk away. This successful outcome highlights the value of teamwork and the unique our of capabilities Technical Rescue Team when called upon to assist both people and animals in challenging situations. - Photos courtesy Lexington FD
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Louisville Warehouse Fire
Louisville Fire Department crews responded to a fire alarm activation at a cold storage warehouse in the 600 block of Industry Road. While investigating the alarm, firefighters discovered heavy smoke conditions inside the warehouse and requested additional resources. Crews deployed multiple 1¾ inch handlines and located a fire involving a large foam-insulated doorway leading into a walk-in cooler. The fire was quickly extinguished and contained to the area of origin. A total of 32 firefighters operated on scene, including five engine companies, two truck companies, one battalion chief, and four staff officers. Preliminary findings indicate the fire was accidental in nature. Investigators reviewed video surveillance footage that showed electrical arcing occurring in the area of the cooler doorway at the time of ignition. Due to the facility’s storage of food products, the Louisville Metro Department of Public Health and Wellness was requested to conduct an inspection of the affected area. - Photo courtesy Louisville FD
Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 19
Page 20, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Floating Van Rescued The Wilmore Fire Department responded to multiple water emergencies on June 27, 2026. Multiple people had to be rescued from stalled vehicles in water. The crew of 82 Truck utilized their tower ladder bucket to rescue a victim inside a minivan that had floated. Luckily the van stopped at a large curb. Knowing the area before the water rose allowed crews to safely operate the tower ladder up stream to rescue the victim. No injuries were sustained. - Submitted by Chief Josh Day
Excavation Unit Fire in Georgetown Georgetown firefighters recently responded to a piece of excavation equipment that caught fire. Crews worked quickly to knock down the fire and keep the damage from spreading. The driver was able to exit the equipment and was not injured. - Photos courtesy Georgetown FD
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 21
Hebron Thanks Wawa for Its Support The Hebron Fire Protection District staff would like to thank Wawa in Hebron, for providing lunch for our crews on July 1, 2026, for National Hoagie Day. We truly appreciate your generosity! - Photo courtesy Hebron Fire Protection District
2 Saved by Pleasure Ridge Park Fire’s Water Rescue Team Recently, Pleasure Ridge Park Fire Department’s Water Rescue Team rescued two occupants from a vehicle on Highway 44 during flooding in the area. - Photo courtesy Pleasure Ridge Park FD Water Rescue Team
Page 22, Fire News, September/October 2026
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TRAINING
Live Fire Training for Henderson
Henderson firefighters drilled on an acquired structure recently. Crews drilled conducting search, ventilation and other types of training with all three shifts. Thank you HMP&L for allowing us - Photos courtesy Henderson FD to use the structure!
Page 24, Fire News, September/October 2026
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TRAINING
Owensboro Elevator Rescue Training Firefighters with the Owensboro Fire Department sharpened their skills during elevator rescue training, practicing the techniques and teamwork needed to safely assist people during elevator emergencies. - Photos courtesy Owensboro FD
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Fire News, September/October 2026, Page 25
TRAINING
Training for High-Heat Conditions Frankfort Fire and EMS, alongside the Franklin County Fire Department, trained on cold-water immersion procedures due to elevated temperatures and the increased risk of heat stroke. Crews practiced safely placing patients in tubs of ice water, immersing them up to the chest and neck while continuously protecting and monitoring their airways. This rapid-cooling technique helps lower a patient’s body temperature below 102 ° F and can be lifesaving during a heat-related emergency. Stay hydrated, limit strenuous outdoor activity during peak heat, and watch for signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke. - Photos courtesy Frankfort Fire & EMS
LIBERTY ARTWORK JUST UNVEILED IT’S NEWEST MONUMENT “TOOLS OF TRADITION” AT THE MARYLAND STATE FIREFIGHTERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE IN OCEAN CITY, MD. We finished it the night before we left St. Lous for the conference as it made its way across the country to the east coast. While traveling down the highway we noticed other cars slowing down to take photos of the statue and when we stopped for fuel or food we met brother firefighters who came up to inquire about the monument. The following is the description of the monument and I have attached a picture of my father, Robert Daus Sr. Retired St. Louis Firefighter and founder of Liberty Art Works who was at the Convention to unveil it. This exceptional bronze monument was sculpted to integrate iconic firefighting tools such as an Officer Trumpet, Wooden Ladder, Pike Pole, Straight Bore Nozzle, Fire Ax, and Leather Fire Helmet into a prominent freestanding display of tradition. The tools emerge from a rolled fire hose base which completes the inspiration of the sculpture. The ax will proudly display the department logo on both sides in a 3D form. Finished in a classic brown patina, sealed to withstand the elements, and outfitted with internal stainless-steel pins for mounting. Made in the USA visit www.libertyartworks.com for more information. Total Height 50” width (ax) 36” Hose Base: 21” deep x 25” wide from coupling to edge of hose. Weight: 250lbs approx.
FINANCIAL FITNESS FOR FIREFIGHTERS You Speak, We’re Listening: Finances Are Crucial To Your Health And Wellness By Ryan Fields-Spack – Associate Director, Responder Wellness, FirstNet®, Built with AT&T Imagine you’ve just been relieved from another grueling firehouse shift. Eighteen calls in 24 hours and almost no sleep. Driving home, your mind drifts from the controlled chaos of the engine to the stack of bills waiting for you. Mortgage payments, student loans, credit card debt—the financial worries that refuse to take a backseat despite the lifesaving work you do. In my 25 years of experience in emergency response, including 7 years with the FirstNet Response Operations Group™ (ROG), I’ve seen firsthand how financial stress can impact the mental health and overall well-being of first responders. And in your responses to the 2026 “What Firefighters Want” survey, you were loud and clear: Firefighters want help with financial well-being. Why Financial Wellness Matters Financial stability is important to a good quality of life. But many firefighters face a unique challenge: the pride and satisfaction of doing their dream job can quickly give way to the realities of the work. In the past, we were expected to figure it out on our own. Things have changed now, and we know that by addressing these financial stressors, you can improve your mental health, job performance, and overall quality of life. As a result, FirstNet has partnered with Ramsey SmartDollar to pilot financial wellness programs specifically tailored to first responders. Created by Dave Ramsey, widely regarded as a financial literacy pioneer, these programs enable fire districts to provide practical tools and resources to help firefighters manage finances, reduce debt, and build a secure financial future. Key Components of Financial Wellness Financial wellness boils down to a few core practices: 1. Creating a budget: It may not be easy or fun, but creating a budget provides a sense of accomplishment and control. 2. Eliminating debt: Getting and staying debt-free is central to true financial wellness. 3. Building an emergency fund: Handling life’s surprises without panic requires a cash cushion. 4. Investing for the future: Build a clear path toward retirement and long-term goals. 5. Changing behavior: Knowing what to do isn’t the problem — doing it is. Real wellness starts with changing money habits. The SmartDollar program guides you step-by-step through each of these to financial stability. You’ll learn how to stick to a budget, get out of debt, save for the future, and build wealth. When it comes to dealing with emergencies, firefighters love a good standard operating procedure. Well, this plan is for you, for transforming your own—and your family’s—futures. FirstNet understands that your job is more than just a profession— it’s a calling. And while we’re known for providing reliable communication during emergencies, we also care deeply about your overall well-being. Taking care of your financial health is just as important as helping to make sure you have the connectivity you need when and where it matters most. Take control of your financial future and learn more about the SmartDollar program.
Page 26, Fire News, September/October 2026
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Hebron Fire Placed Blood 43 in Service. Blood 43 is a regional pre-hospital blood transfusion unit designed to bring lifesaving blood products directly to critically bleeding patients before they ever reach the hospital. Through this program, specially trained Hebron paramedics can carry and administer Packed Red Blood Cells (PRBCs) and plasma to eligible patients suffering from severe traumatic injury, major medical bleeding, postpartum hemorrhage, and other life-threatening causes of blood loss. Blood 43 is stationed out of Station 43, located only four minutes from the I-71/75 and I-275 interchange. This strategic location provides rapid access to major interstate exits in multiple directions and allows Blood 43 to support not only Hebron, but also the greater Northern Kentucky region, including Boone, Kenton, Campbell, Grant, Gallatin, and Dearborn County. EMS agencies transporting a critically bleeding patient through or near the I-75 and I-275 corridors may request Blood 43 for a scene response or rendezvous, allowing eligible patients to receive a pre-hospital blood transfusion while en route to definitive care. This program structure allows Blood 43 to provide a systemic regional benefit. Prehospital blood administration is a nationally recognized advancement in emergency medical care. The National Association of EMS
Physicians has published support for pre-hospital blood product use in appropriately selected patients, and the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, part of the U.S. Department of Transportation, has identified pre-hospital blood transfusion as an important strategy to improve survival after severe trauma. Blood 43 was developed with patient safety, physician oversight, blood center coordination, provider training, strict storage, and temperature-monitoring safeguards at the center of the program. In 2016, only five EMS agencies in the United States carried blood products. Today, over 400 EMS agencies across the country have developed pre-hospital blood programs. In Kentucky, Hebron Fire is the second fire department to carry blood products, and the sixth EMS agency overall. This program would not be possible without the partnership of Hoxworth Blood Center, the support of our medical director, regional hospitals, neighboring fire and EMS agencies, and the dedication of our members who worked to bring this capability to our community. This is a major step forward for pre-hospital emergency care in Northern Kentucky! - Photos courtesy Hebron Fire Protection District