Virginia Department of Fire Programs

Good news! The brand new VDFP website is officially up and running! This new website will allow users a new way to access the resources they need. Bookmark the new URL: VDFP.VIRGINIA.GOV

#VDFP Chief Kibler assisted with the Port of Virginia Marine Firefighting School. Kibler said, "We brought out some newer rope winch technology to help haul firefighting gear aboard the vessel more efficiently while reducing the manpower needed for the operation."

The 29th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on June 6 at the Richmond Raceway. For more information on the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact (804) 325-8963 or pio@vdfp.virginia.gov.

Take a look at this 4-day Watercraft Operations Course in Arlington. Students received hands-on experience learning vessel identification, operational capabilities, deployment procedures, safety systems, communications, propulsion systems, and on-water maneuvering.

Are you ready? #VDFP's new website is launching SOON, and we are excited to bring you an updated experience. Stay tuned for more details! 🔥

Employee Appreciation Week was May 4-6, and as you can see, VDFP employees were all smiles! Throughout the week, employees enjoyed a sweet treat from Sweet Tooth Dessert Truck, savory bites from Strawberry Street Food Truck, mocktails and bingo! You are appreciated!

Friends are invited to John Fugman's visitation at Nelsen Funeral Home, 412 S. Washington Highway, Ashland, Virginia, on Wednesday, May 27, from 11 a.m. until the time of the Remembrance Service at 1 p.m. in the Chapel.

It’s Tuesday! So that means a new #podcast is dropping called “Emergency Building Shoring Systems Course: Strengthening Operational Readiness” Want to listen? Click here: bit.ly/4nzCMjC

Grant applications are open for the Fire Incident Reporting Grant Program. Eligible localities can apply for the grant by downloading and completing the form on the VDFP website. Applications can be submitted by email to grants@vdfp.virginia.gov by Aug. 31, 2026.

A Train-the-Trainer Course is taking place June 13-14 in Blacksburg, Va. Registration: Email Frank Cheatham at Benjamin.cheatham@vdfp.virginia.gov Class limit is 24. Please provide a copy of a class certificate that is no more than 24 months old. Registration closes June 1.

Join emergency response personnel, government officials, and public safety members in Richmond on Saturday, June 6 to celebrate eight honorees at the annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service. Learn more: bit.ly/3SdiDkp

HAPPENING TODAY! Another VDFP NERIS Support Webinar to help support your department's transition. ⌚ 12 PM ET 💻 Host: Sarah Kenny 📝 Presenters: Baylie Scott, Chief Broscious, Chief Stephens Want to join? Click here: bit.ly/4enq8BO

Congratulations to students of the Hillsville Firefighter 1 for completing their Firefighter 1 Final Burn on Saturday, May 9 at the Galax Fire Training Center! 21 students demonstrated dedication, teamwork, and commitment to serving their communities. Good work, Hillsville!

Rescue Challenge was held May 4-7 in the Shenandoah Valley. Hosting localities included: the city of Harrisonburg, Rockingham County, Augusta County, the city of Waynesboro and the city of Staunton. There were over 200 participants making up 12 teams. Great work everyone! 🔥

HAPPENING TODAY! VDFP NERIS SUPPORT WEBINAR ⏰ 10 AM ET 💻 Host: Sarah Kenny 📝 Presenters: Director Creasy, Baylie Scott, Chief Broscious, Chief Stephens Click here to join us: bit.ly/4n5RVJb

VDFP is saddened to announce that former Division 1 Chief John Fugman passed away Saturday morning as a result of his ongoing battle with cancer. Please keep John’s wife Tina, friends, and colleagues in your prayers. Arrangements will be announced when available.

Congratulations to Adjunct Instructor Jeff Kimble on his Special Service Award at this year’s Fire Department Instructors Conference in Indianapolis. Kimble has dedicated his career to training, leadership, and volunteering through VDFP & Laurel Fork Volunteer Fire Department.

A Train-the-Trainer Course is taking place June 13-14 in Blacksburg, Va. Registration: Email Frank Cheatham at Benjamin.cheatham@vdfp.virginia.gov Class limit is 24. Please provide a copy of a class certificate no more than 24 months old. Registration closes June 1.

On June 6, emergency response personnel, government officials, and public safety members will gather at the Richmond Raceway to celebrate the courage and dedication of 8 honorees. The Memorial Service is a FREE EVENT bit.ly/3SdiDkp The event will be livestreamed.

Time is winding down to apply for the VDFP Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Smoke Alarm Distribution Program. All alarms must be installed prior to Dec. 31, 2026. Application Deadline: May 15, 2026 Awardees Announced: June 1, 2026 Apply here: bit.ly/4tA87Vc