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NORTH CAROLINA Serving

Volume 4, No. 5

W W W.FIRENE WS .COM

Fire, Rescue The Serving Magazine Fire, Rescue Serving & EMS &Fire, EMS Heroes Rescue Heroes Since 1973 &Since EMS Heroes 1973

October/November 2026

Story on page 12. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 3

In this issue... South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo A visual look around North Carolina’s Fire Rescue Expo. See story on pages 4, 6, 8 & 10

Serving Fire & EMS Heroes Since 1973 FRANK C. TROTTA, Publisher/CEO TIM EDWARDS, Chief Operating Officer GARY P. JOYCE, Editor MARIE TROTTA, Vice President, Production

Discarded Battery Starts Trash Fire in Raleigh An improperly discarded battery was found in a load of burning trash in a solid waste vehicle.

See story on page 9

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

Fully Involved Truck on Julian Place Responders were alerted for a vehicle fire. Arriving units found a fully involved work truck.

See story on page 16

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

Reaching 17 States with 14 Editions Search For Missing Swimmer at Falls Lake Crews searched for a missing swimmer. The body of the victim was discovered before sunset. See story on page 17

Chemical Spill in Tanker Overturn

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

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Troutman Fire Rescue was dispatched for a minor fuel spill on Houston Road. See story on page 21

Charlotte Commercial Structure Fire Firefighters were dispatched to a commercial fire alarm activation at an industrial location.

See story on page 32

PLUS: Training . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . pages 23-25 Focus of the Month . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 31 Industry News . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . page 33

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, October/November 2026

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South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo continued on pages 6, 8 & 10

- Photos by Tesh Parekh

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South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo continued from page 4

- Photos by Tesh Parekh

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South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo continued from page 6

- Photos by Tesh Parekh

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 9

Discarded Battery Starts Trash Fire in Raleigh

On August 27, 2026, an improperly discarded battery was found in a load of burning trash in a City of Raleigh solid waste vehicle. Engine 6 was called to the scene on Wade Avenue, where the trash truck had emptied its load. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

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South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo 2026 continued from page 8 Firefighters, emergency responders, instructors and industry representatives gathered at the Raleigh Convention Center from August 12 to 15 for the 2026 South Atlantic Fire Rescue Expo. Organized by the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, SAFRE has grown into one of the region’s leading fire-rescue conferences and exhibitions. The annual event provides members of the emergency-services community with opportunities to continue their education, examine new equipment and connect with fellow responders from throughout North Carolina and beyond. The four-day program featured educational sessions covering a variety of subjects important to today’s fire service. Attendees had opportunities to learn about firefighting operations, leadership, safety, health and wellness, emergency response and other issues affecting both career and volunteer departments. The SAFRE exhibit hall opened August 14 and 15, bringing together manufacturers, dealers and service providers from across the fire-rescue industry. Displays included fire apparatus, ambulances, protective clothing, tools, communications equipment and other products designed to improve responder safety and operational effectiveness. Apparatus displays remained a popular attraction, allowing firefighters to examine the latest engines, aerial devices, rescue vehicles and specialty units. Company representatives were available to demonstrate new features and answer questions from departments considering future equipment purchases. In addition to training and equipment displays, SAFRE provided an important opportunity for firefighters from different departments and communities to exchange ideas and discuss the challenges facing the modern fire service. The event also recognized the service, leadership and accomplishments of members of the North Carolina fire-service community. Since its establishment as an expansion of the North Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s annual conference and business meeting, SAFRE has continued to grow in both size and importance. The 2026 gathering again demonstrated the fire service’s commitment to professional development, technological advancement and cooperation among departments. For those attending, SAFRE was more than an equipment exhibition. It was a chance to learn, reconnect with longtime colleagues and strengthen the relationships that help emergency responders better serve their communities. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

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Cover Story

Charlotte FD House Fire on a Hot Day

On September 3, 2026, at 1520 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department, with automatic aid from the Pineville, responded to a reported house fire on Tifton Road. Multiple 911 calls received by Charlotte Fire Communications reported a kitchen fire. Charlotte Fire Engine 24-C Shift arrived to find an electrical-fed fire showing from the A/D side of a single-story, single-family dwelling. Pineville Engine 1 arrived, secured a hydrant and went to work alongside Charlotte Ladder 32 conducting vertical ventilation. Engine 32 stretched a second line to assist Engine 24. Under the command of Charlotte Battalion Chief Derek Parks, firefighters mounted an aggressive attack while operating in extremely hot and humid conditions. Due to the extreme and dangerous heat and the need for additional personnel, a second alarm was struck. Mecklenburg EMS responded with a supervisor, two ambulances and the Mass Casualty Bus to provide firefighter rehabilitation, hydration and cooling. The cause was under investigation by the Charlotte FD Investigation Task Force. - Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 13

Structure Complete Loss

Generator Explodes, Starts Fire in Matthews

Units were alerted just before 0500 for a structure fire in the area of Charlestown Road and Goldsboro Road. Engine 1 arrived and confirmed a fully involved single-story structure, with all occupants out of the house. No injuries were reported, although the structure was a complete loss. Thanks to our mutual aid partners Sunny Point, Winnabow, Southport and Bolivia. - Photo courtesy Boiling Spring Lakes FR

On August 23, 2026, at 1617 hours, the Stallings Fire Department responded to a reported structure fire near Matthews-Indian Trail Road and Marie Garris Drive, with Matthews Fire and EMS providing an engine as automatic aid. Additional 911 callers reported that a generator had exploded next to a camper near the rear of the Scott Clark Toyota dealership off East Independence Boulevard. Stallings Engine 201 arrived and stretched an initial attack line while Matthews Engine 12 established a water supply. During the incident, it was determined that the fire was located in Mecklenburg County. Due to the nature of the incident, a Mecklenburg County Fire Marshal was requested to the scene. The fire was extinguished and brought under control in approximately 10 minutes. The cause of the fire was under investigation. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com

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Charlotte Apartment Fire on 77 Center Dr. On August 8, 2026, at 1638 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department was dispatched to an apartment fire in the 5100 block of 77 Center Drive. Engine 12 was first to arrive on the scene and reported smoke showing from the fourth floor. Engine 12 initiated the fire attack, with Engine 43 establishing the water supply as Battalion 8 assumed command. The fire was contained to a fourthfloor balcony, with extension into the void spaces within the structural columns. The fire was controlled in 15 minutes and there were no reported injuries. The cause of the fire was under investigation by the Charlotte Fire Investigation Task Force. - Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy

Wildfire Response Off Funston Road Boiling Spring units were alerted for the possible brush fire on Funston Road near Daws Creek Road. First arriving units found a woods fire burning, but difficult to access initially. Due to fire behavior and spread, Funston Road was closed. The fire was moving quickly toward the road and at times created a nearly impassable smoke screen along the area. Fortunately, crews were able to hold the fire to the area of origin in a lumber tract. NC Forestry Service made good time reaching the scene and assisting with a plow to get lines all the way around the fire. Units operated for approximately three hours to bring the situation under control. Crews came from Winnabow FD and Boiling Spring Lakes Fire Rescue as well as NC Forest Service. Thanks also to Bolivia Fire for standing up to cover both districts. - Photo courtesy Boiling Spring Lakes FR

Structure Fire on Loblolly Ct. On August 29, 2026, at 1216 hours, Troutman Fire Rescue responded, along with multiple departments, for a report of a structure fire on Loblolly Court. Multiple calls for a structure fire were also coming in from boaters on the lake. Arriving units reported a small building and generator on fire. All other departments were cancelled, and crews extinguished the fire and secured the gas to the generator. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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Charlotte Handles Entrapment MVA On September 8, 2026 at 1632 hours, Charlotte Fire Department Engine 2 and Ladder 2 responded to an overturn MVA at East Boulevard and Queens Road West. Engine 2 arrived to an SUV on its side with people entrapped. CFD Ladder 2 arrived shortly after and began extrications. The victims were quickly extricated with one person being transported by Mecklenburg County EMS (MEDIC) to Atrium Health CMC with minor injuries. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com

Fully Involved Truck on Julian Place On August 11, 2026 at 1041 hours, Troutman Fire Rescue was alerted for a vehicle fire on Julian Place. Arriving units found a fully involved work truck on South Main Street by Julian Place and a working fire was transmitted by Chief of the Department Wesley Morris. Ladder 1 was first on scene and stretched one hose line and quickly extinguished the fire. Iredell County Sheriff’s unit and Troutman Police units blocked two lanes of traffic while firefighters operated. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 17

Search For Missing Swimmer at Falls Lake Ends in Recovery On Labor Day, boat crews from three counties searched for a missing swimmer at Sandling Beach at Falls Lake in Northern Wake County. First-due Northern Wake Fire Department and nearby Wake Forest Fire Department brought both their boats and submersible drones. The Durham Fire Department also responded with a boat. Other watercraft were brought by the Wake County Sheriff’s Office and the Nash County Sheriff’s Office. The emergency call was received just before 1430 hours. The body of the 16-year-old victim was discovered shortly before sunset. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

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2 Aircraft Alerts at RDU

On July 1, 2026, an unusual incident occurred at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), when a twin-engine, 2014 Embraer executive jet and a box truck collided on a taxiway. The collision damaged the nose of the aircraft. The driver of the truck and two people aboard the plane were evaluated for injuries. No EMS response was requested. While units were at the scene a second air-

craft emergency was dispatched for an inbound, single-engine Bonanza with two aboard and flight control issues. The aircraft landed without incident and was later towed from the taxiway. The airfield was closed to all other inbound or outbound aircraft, during both incidents. - Fire News photo by Mike Legeros

2 Seriously Injured in Southeast Charlotte On September 22, 2026, at 1527 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department responded to an MVA with a reported pin-in at Sardis Road and Wingrave Drive. Engine 19 arrived to find a car underneath a flatbed construction vehicle with a confirmed pin and heavy intrusion. Under the command of Battalion Chief Kevin Carr, Engine 19 and Tower 3 put tools into operation to remove the A/B posts and extricate two victims. Firefighters had to flap the roof back due to the car’s driver being heavily pinned. Firefighters had both patients freed in approximately 10 minutes. Mecklenburg County EMS transported one patient with serious injuries and one patient with life-threateninginjuries to Novant Presbyterian Medical Center. - Fire News photo by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com

Driver Seriously Burned in Iredell County On July 23, 2026, at 1500 hours, the Mooresville, Mount Mourne and South Iredell fire departments, along with Iredell County EMS, responded to a report of an MVA with fire and a person on fire. The driver of the vehicle was pulled from the vehicle by Good Samaritans. Firefighters started extinguishing the fully involved vehicle while others gave aid to the severely burned driver. The fire was brought under control at 1519, and the driver was rushed to the hospital by Iredell County EMS since no medivacs were able to fly due to the weather. The North Carolina State Highway Patrol was investigating the accident. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 21

Chemical Spill in Tanker Overturn

On August 3, 2026 at 0633 hours, Troutman Fire Rescue was dispatched for a minor fuel spill on Houston Road by Narroway Lane. The first arriving unit found a tanker truck on its side with a fuel leak from its saddle tank and an active leak of product from the tank. Firefighters stopped the fuel spill and tried to contain the leaking product from the tank, which was determined to be some kind of liquid plastic. Mooresville Fire Rescue’s Hazardous Materials unit was special called to the scene. The chemical leaking from the tank was determined to be Di (2-ethylhexyl) phthalate commonly known as DEHP, a synthetic chemical added to plastics to make them soft and flexible. Ultimate Towing and Recovery crews pumped out the saddle tanks and up-righted the tanker from the ditch it was in without further incident. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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1 Injured in Single Car MVA Drewry Volunteer Fire Department responded to a single-vehicle MVA on Jacksontown Road in Manson, on August 24, 2026, with three trucks and 10 firefighters. There were two patients, only one of whom was transported to the Medical Center. - Photo courtesy Drewry VFD

MVA at Charlotte Hwy. and Westmoreland Rd. On August 12, 2026 at 1348 hours, Mooresville and Shepherds fire rescues responded to an MVA at the intersection of Charlotte Highway and Westmoreland Road. Two people were evaluated by Iredell County EMS and crews secured the vehicles and applied drying agent to a spill in the roadway. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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TRAINING

Comms Training for Task Force 8

In August, a week-long NC USAR Communications Specialist class was conducted at the Raleigh Fire Department Keeter Training Center. Sixteen members of NC USAR Task Force 8 attended from member agencies Raleigh Fire, Durham Fire, Chapel Hill Fire, and Wake County EMS. The five-day course covered disaster communication management for deployed rescue resources. This included voice and data support through multiple radio systems, repeaters, Wi-Fi networks, hardwired systems, internet services, and MESH networks. The students utilized the team’s recently received DEN systems mobile network and cloud system, as well as the new mobile command and communications trailer, which replaced an older one and is based at Chapel Hill Fire Department. The course was conducted by Wake Technical Community College and sponsored by NC Emergency Management. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

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TRAINING

Mutual Aid Training at RDU

In August, mutual aid ARFF training was conducted at Raleigh-Durham International Airport. Firefighters from Raleigh, Cary, Morrisville and Durham Highway fire departments joined airport firefighters to learn about aircraft rescue and firefighting techniques. - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

Construction Accident in Raleigh

Raleigh firefighters on Engine 9 performed patient care to a construction worker, after an equipment accident at a construction site on Kimberly Drive on August 24, 2026. - Fire News photo by Mike Legeros

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Charlotte Fire Station 11 Opening On June 3, 2026, the Charlotte Fire Department held a ceremony to mark the opening of the Department’s new Station 11. The original station, which opened in 1959, had been showing its age, had become cramped, inefficient and costly to operate and was no longer able to meet the needs of the department. As a result, in 2024, the city approved the department’s Fire Facilities Program which funded five new fire stations, including the replacement of Station 11. The department had considered relocating the station, however ultimately decided to tear down the old station and then build the new station at the same location. In January 2025, Station 11 was closed and the companies were temporarily relocated to nearby stations. The old station was razed and a new $18.9 million, four-bay, two-story facility was constructed on the site, reopening in May 2026. The new station with workspaces on the first level and living quarters on the second level, is home to Charlotte’s Engine 11, Rescue 11, Dive 11 and Battalion 9. The June 3 uncoupling ceremony marked the official opening and included remarks from Charlotte Fire Chief Reginald T. Johnson, as well as city officials and local community leaders, and was followed by an open house. - Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy

TRAINING

Water Rescue Training in Spring Lake Park Water rescue and dive training was held at Spring Lake Park. Boiling Spring Lakes members brushed up on their skills with divers working, as well as crews working along the shore. - Photos courtesy Boiling Spring Lakes FR

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New Air Van for Iredell Rescue

South Iredell Fire Rescue received their new Air Van which was three years in the making. It will be called Utility 12 and it will replace their 1994 Air Van. This state-of-the-art vehicle will be able to respond throughout Iredell County to assist firefighters with filling their empty air tanks, but its primary area will be the south end of the county. Utility 12 will not only be used as an Air Van, but as a light rescue truck. It also carries chain saws, vehicle extrication tools, rope kits with Stoke’s basket, medical gear, 16,000-pound winch, 20,000 watt generator and a support unit for manpower. South Iredell firefighters continued the long-stand, officially putting it into service. This unit will be temporarily covering the entire County as the Central Fire Department’s Air Van is out of service. - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

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Academy 58 Starts in Raleigh

The Raleigh Fire Department started its third fire academy for this calendar year. Sixteen new recruits reported for duty on August 17, 2026. They’ll graduate from the 26-week program in February 2027. They were hired to fill five new firefighter positions that city council approved as part of the fire department’s master plan. Fun fact, this is only the third time that three Raleigh fire academies have started in the same calendar year. Previously, it happened in 2000 (Academies 24, 25 and 26) and 1978 (Academies 1, 2 and 3). - Fire News photos by Mike Legeros

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Red Knights BBQ for New Station Dedication North Carolina Red Knights Chapter 21 after long hours of cooking BBQ for Sherrills Ford-Terrell Fire Rescue’s Station 2 dedication. - Fire News photo by ImmsterFirePhotos.com

Up Close and Personal Sherrills Ford-Terrell Fire Rescue Ladies Auxiliary at a recent event. - Fire News photo by Immsterfirephotos.com

New Technical Rescue Truck in Durham The Durham Fire Department has placed a new technical rescue truck in service. The 2025 Mack/Mickey box truck replaced an older truck that was built by M&W Fire Apparatus in 1994, and using the cab and chassis of a 1978 Ford/Sutphen pumper. It’s housed at Station 2 and cross-staffed by Ladder 2. - Fire News photo by Mike Legeros

Vintage Pumper in Onslow County Displayed outside the Holly Ridge Fire Station in Onslow County is this well-preserved 1952 Chevy/Darley pumper, 500/500. - Fire News photo by Mike Legeros

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Rowan Rescue Celebrates 75th Anniversary

On July 25, 2026, Rowan County Rescue celebrated their 75th anniversary with a community celebration at Station 91. There were food trucks, a bounce house, tours of the station, apparatus and live demonstrations. The community watched as Rescue mem-

bers performed a high-angle rescue scenario and a vehicle extrication scenario. The celebration was a success with many community members dropping by during the day and thanking members for - Fire News photos by ImmsterFirePhotos.com what they do.

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 31

Fairview Rural FD Junior Firefighters Take 3rd Place

On August 8, 2026, the Fairview Rural Fire Department Junior Firefighters competed in the 2026 Alamance County Junior Firefighter Competition at the Burlington Fire and Police Training Center. The teams competed in hose drills, ladder drills, and firefighter knowledge quizzes. Under the guidance of Chief Barry Spain, Assistant Chief Glenn Clapp, and Captain Eric Blanks, the Fairview Rural Juniors took third place overall in the competition. The competition is open to any organized Junior FF team ages 14-17 in North Carolina, and there are plans by the organizer to host another competition in 2027. Follow AlamanceCoJrFFCompetition on social - Fire News photos by Paul Pope media for more information.

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Charlotte Commercial Structure Fire On June 13, 2026, at 1457 hours, the Charlotte Fire Department’s Engine 38 and Ladder 20 were dispatched to a commercial fire alarm activation at an industrial location on Westinghouse Boulevard. Upon arrival at a manufacturing facility, Engine 38’s crew found smoke filling the building and a fire in some of the machinery. Engine 38 initiated the fire attack and requested an upgrade to a working fire assignment for additional resources. Subsequent arriving units ventilated the interior and checked the roof for any possible extension. The fire was contained to the manufacturing machinery and was declared under control at 1518. Units added on the working fire upgrade included Engines 26, 37 and 30, Ladder 17, Rescue 10,Safety 1, Rehab 1 and Investigators. - Fire News photos by William G. Kennedy

Oregon Hill Volunteer Fire Department Holds 50th Anniversary Dinner

The Oregon Hill Volunteer Fire Department in Reidsville held its 50th anniversary dinner and awards presentation on August 7, 2026. This event was organized to honor all current department and auxiliary members. The ceremony included a “Gone But Not Forgotten” presentation, active members photo reveal, a catered meal for all in attendance and special awards were presented by Reece Pyrtle, NC House of Representatives District 65 and Mike

Causey, North Carolina Commissioner of Insurance. The remaining four founding members of the department all received a certificate of acknowledgment and congratulations from Mr. Pyrtle and The Order of the Guardian award from Mr. Causey. They also received commemorative awards from the fire department as a token of appreciation for their commitment and sacrifice over the last five decades. - Submitted by Kevin Miller

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Fire News, October/November 2026, Page 33

Fuquay-Varina FD Captain Retires After 26 Years of Service

Fuquay-Varina BC Garland Johnston Retires After 25 Years

The Fuquay-Varina Fire Department recently honored Captain Sam Golightly with a retirement luncheon on August 6, 2026, celebrating an illustrious 26-year career. Joining the department as a volunteer in April 2000 before transitioning into a full-time role, Captain Golightly officially retired on September 1, 2026. While he served on various shifts throughout his tenure, his career began and concluded on C-shift, where he became a staple of the department’s operations and a pillar of the Fuquay-Varina community. Throughout his tenure, Captain Golightly was defined by his natural leadership and commitment to mentorship. He dedicated himself to cultivating the next generation of first responders, ensuring they possessed both the technical skills and the confidence to serve with excellence. Known for his tireless work ethic and “first out the door” mentality, his dedication has left an indelible mark on the department. Beyond the ranks, he is a loyal friend and a trusted fishing buddy who always has your back, whether on the fire scene or off duty in the community. We offer our deepest gratitude to Captain Golightly for his unwavering service and wish him a rewarding and fulfilling retirement. - Photo courtesy of Jennifer Fink at Timeless Heroes Photography; submitted by Dana Johnson

Following 25 years of distinguished service, Battalion Chief Garland Johnston retired from the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department effective September 1, 2026. A veteran of the department since August 2001, Chief Johnston served in various capacities — including Firefighter, Engineer, and Captain — before spending more than 16 years as a Battalion Chief. Chief Johnston’s extensive career is also marked by his nearly three decades of service at the Fairgrounds/Western Wake Fire Department. Serving there from 1992 through 2020, he held every position within the department and served as Fire Chief during his final seven years (2013–2020). Throughout his tenure, Chief Johnston was recognized for his steady leadership and dedication to operational excellence. A mentor to many, he remained a consistent and reliable professional who prioritized the safety of his team above all else. The department honored his storied career with a retirement luncheon on July 29, 2026, celebrating a man who gave more than just years of service; he gave his heart to the community. As he prepares for his next chapter, the Fuquay-Varina Fire Department remains forever changed by his leadership and the lasting impact he left on both its people and the public it protects. - Photo courtesy of Jennifer Fink at Timeless Heroes Photography; submitted by Dana Johnson

CITY OF CHARLESTON FIREFIGHTER AND PARAMEDIC PUBLISHES CHILDREN’S BOOK WITH HIS MOTHER TO HONOR FALLEN FIREFIGHTER FATHER AND HELP CHILDREN COPE WITH LOSS Charleston Fire Department firefighter and paramedic Joseph Northup, alongside co-author Taunya Northup Mendenhall, has released a children’s book, Still My Hero, written to help young readers cope with the loss of a parent—especially within first responder and military families. Inspired by Northup’s own experience, his father, a firefighter, was killed in the line of duty on April 1, 2004. The book is told through the eyes of a child navigating that loss, offering a perspective that is both honest and relatable. Still My Hero follows a young boy coping with the death of his father, a firefighter he viewed as his hero. Through simple, heartfelt language, the story helps children understand grief, express their emotions, and recognize that their connection to a lost parent never fades. “This book is for kids who are going through something they shouldn’t have to go through,” Northup said. “In the fire service and military, we understand the risks, but for the children left behind, the impact is lifelong. We wanted to create something that helps them feel understood and not alone.” Co-author and Joseph’s mother, Taunya Northup Mendenhall, brings decades of professional experience supporting victims and families through trauma, helping shape the book’s approach to grief in a way that is both compassionate and accessible for children. Designed as both a story and a resource, the book can be used by parents, caregivers, and counselors to help guide conversations about loss and healing. By presenting grief through a child’s perspective, Still My Hero creates

a safe and approachable way to talk about difficult emotions. The authors hope the book will reach families across the country and serve as a source of comfort for children facing the loss of a parent. Still My Hero is available on Amazon.com. For media inquiries, interviews, or appearances, please contact: Joseph Northup (859) 705-9813 About the Authors Joseph Northup II is a firefighter and paramedic with the Charleston Fire Department, currently assigned to Engine 113 as an Assistant Engineer. He is a member of the department’s Honor Guard Team, Peer Support Team, and Tactical EMS Team. He holds a bachelor’s degree in Fire Protection Administration and a master’s degree in Safety, Security, and Emergency Management from Eastern Kentucky University. His father, also a firefighter, was killed in the line of duty on April 1, 2004, in Kentucky. Taunya Northup Mendenhall holds an undergraduate degree in Psychology and a master’s degree in Social Work and Corrections. She served as a Victims Advocate for nearly 30 years before retiring in 2024. Her professional experience supporting individuals and families through trauma helped shape the compassionate and child-focused approach of Still My Hero. Together, they wrote Still My Hero to help children—especially those in first responder and military families—cope with the loss of a parent.

THE CALL FOR PAPERS IS OFFICIALLY OPEN FOR THE 28TH ANNUAL NEW JERSEY EMERGENCY PREPAREDNESS ASSOCIATION (NJEPA) CONFERENCE Taking place April 12–16, 2027, in Atlantic City, NJ! NJEPA is looking for presenters to share their knowledge, experience, best practices, and innovative ideas with New Jersey’s emergency management and first responder community. Call for Papers Opens: September 1, 2026 Submission Deadline: November 30, 2026 We encourage you to submit your presentation ideas and share this opportunity with colleagues and partners who may be interested in presenting at the 2027 NJEPA Conference. We look forward to another great conference and hope to see you in Atlantic City!

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The Outer Banks 9/11 Memorial Walk

Over 400 first responders, residents and visitors made the journey from Dare County EMS Station of Kill Devil Hills Fire Department to the top of the Wright Brothers monument and back to remember those lost 25 years ago. - Submitted by Lee Goldman