Become One Of Parkersburg’s Bravest!

  The Parkersburg Fire Department will begin taking applications for the position of probationary firefighter on Monday, September 27, 2021. Applications will be accepted until Wednesday, November 3, 2021. Applications will be available at the Fire Chief’s office on the 1st floor of the Parkersburg City Building or they can be downloaded from the employment…

CoronaVirus19 Information

The CDC is providing information on how to avoid contracing the Coronavirus and what to do if you are infected. https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/community/home/index.html Additionally, we’re sharing these informational sheets that contain information.

Wood County Emergency Alert System

Get information when you need it and how you want it, visit www.woodcounty911.com to register. This emergency alert & notification system allows subscribers to receive alerts and information pertaining to fire, police, severe weather, health and safety. Registration is simple and you pick the delivery method: text, email or phone call. Register today to receive alerts…

Test Scores certified by Civil Service Commissioners

The Parkersburg Fire Department Civil Service Commissioners have certified the results of the entrance exam given on Tuesday, November 19th, 2019. An applicant will need to use the student ID given to them the night of the test to locate their score. A 70% or above is a passing score. Ties were decided by the…

Now Accepting Applications

The Parkersburg Fire Department has begun taking applications for the position of probationary firefighter. Applications will be accepted until Friday, November 15, 2019. Applications are available at the Fire Chief’s office on the 1st floor of the Parkersburg City Building or they can be downloaded from the employment section. Applicants must be between 18 and…

Kidde Recalls Smoke Detectors

Kidde has recalled almost 500,000 smoke detectors in the US and Canada after discovering a manufacturing error that can reduce the ability to alarm when smoke is present. The following link has information on the model numbers, simple checks to determine whether your alarm is involved, and what to do if yours needs replaced. https://www.cpsc.gov/Recalls/2018/Kidde-Recalls-Dual-Sensor-Smoke-Alarms-Due-to-Risk-of-Failure-to-Alert-Consumers-to-a-Fire If you…

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries!

Daylight saving time begins at 2:00am on Sunday, March 11th. For 30 years, Energizer has partnered with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to keep families safe through the Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries program. During this time, fire departments work to remind people of the simple, life saving habit of changing and testing the batteries…

Parkersburg Fire Department Hires Two

In a brief ceremony at the Parkersburg Municipal Building this morning, Mayor Tom Joyce assisted Fire Chief Jason Matthews in swearing in the two newest firefighters to join the ranks of the Parkersburg Fire Department. Probationary Firefighters Charles Frum III and Brian Kutcher were sworn in. After completing requisite paperwork, the new hires changed into…

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries!

Daylight saving time ends at 2:00am on Sunday, November 5th. For 30 years, Energizer has partnered with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to keep families safe through the Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries program. During this time, fire departments work to remind people of the simple, life saving habit of changing and testing the…

Fire Prevention Week

Fire Prevention Week was established in 1922 to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire. This fire occurred in 1871, killing more than 250 people, destroying more than 17,400 structures. The fire also burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8th, but most of the damage occurred on October 9th, 1871. A larger fire…

Fire Department promotes one

The Parkersburg Fire Department proudly announces the promotion of Firefighter Matt Geary from Private to Lieutenant. Lt. Geary was promoted yesterday with Mayor Tom Joyce performing the honors. Lt. Geary is a 15-year veteran of the fire department and a life-long resident of Parkersburg. He’ll be stationed at Fire Station 6 on Camden Avenue. Lt. Geary is pictured with Mayor…

Family of five displaced by fire

 At 9:03 am, the Parkersburg Fire Department responded to the intersection of 10th Ave and Pike Street for a report of a structure fire. First units arriving just one minute after the call reported heavy smoke and fire in the front of the structure. Once determining that occupants of the structure were all out safely, the…

Fireworks Safety

With the Fourth of July fast approaching, many are making preparations for good times with friends. What should be a fun day can turn tragic when fireworks go awry. The NFPA and the National Council on Fireworks Safety have some great tips to keep your fireworks display safe and fun for everyone! Recommended Safety Tips:…

Child Wellness and Safety Expo

  Join us this Saturday at Parkersburg City Park from 9 am to 3 pm as we team up with the Parkersburg Police Department, Wood County Sheriff’s Department and local businesses to help keep our children safe! Police officers will be inspecting child safety seats and also offering free fingerprinting for your kids. Vision screening…

Entrance exam results certified by Commissioners.

The Fire Civil Service Commission has certified the results of the fire department entrance exam given on Thursday, March 23rd, 2017. The results will be posted at the city’s main station at the Parkersburg Municipal Building, #1 Government Square on Wednesday, April 5th, 2017. If you are unable to make it to the fire station,…

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries!

It’s that time of year again! Change Your Clocks, Change Your Batteries! Daylight saving time will begin at 2:00am on Sunday, March 12th. For 29 years, Energizer has partnered with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to keep families safe through the Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries program. During this time, fire departments work…

Fire department responds to house fire.

Story: At 10:12 am, the Parkersburg Fire Department responded to 563 6th St. for a structure fire. Crews were on scene within minutes of the initial call. Upon arrival, units found the fire had been mostly extinguished by the resident of the apartment with a garden hose. The fire department opened walls and the downstairs…

Fire Department to give entrance exam.

The Parkersburg Fire Department will begin taking applications for the position of probationary firefighter on February 1, 2017. Applications will be accepted until Friday, March 3, 2017. Applications are available at the Fire Chief’s office on the 1st floor of the Parkersburg City Building. Applicants must be between 18 and 35 years of age at…

Fire department swears in two new officers.

The Parkersburg Fire Department wishes to welcome our newest firefighters to the department. From left to right, Mayor Jimmie Colombo, Jeremiah Moyers, Kristopher Burdette, and Chief Jason Matthews. The two were sworn in this morning and will begin their training immediately.

Firefighters Hold Food Drive for Humane Society

The Parkersburg Fire Department will be hosting a pet food drive to benefit the Humane Society of Parkersburg. The event will begin on Monday December 5th and run through Friday December 23rd. Donations of any items for pets will be accepted, including pet toys and cleaning supplies. The Humane Society of Parkersburg has a detailed…

Fire Department issues safety tips for heating safety.

The peak months for home heating fires are December, January, and February. Heating equipment is the second most common cause of home fire fatalities. With a few simple safety tips and precautions you can prevent most heating fires from happening. Here are a few tips:   Keep anything that can burn at least three feet…

Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries!

Daylight saving time ends at 2:00am on Sunday, November 6th. For 29 years, Energizer has partnered with the International Association of Fire Chiefs to keep families safe through the Change Your Clock, Change Your Batteries program. During this time, fire departments work to remind people of the simple, life saving habit of changing and testing…

Fire Prevention Week to be held October 9 – 15

Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire. This fire occurred in 1871 and killed more than 250 people, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8th, but most of the damage occurred on October 9th, 1871. A larger fire also occurred at…

Firefighters receive training on new ladder truck

A representative from Pierce, the manufacturer of the department’s new ladder truck, will be training the department on the ladder’s operations and functions. The representative flew in from Appleton, Wisconsin to offer the training.  It is Pierce’s policy to send a representative to conduct training. The department will have the training for three days. Each…

Fire department conducts annual hose testing.

The Parkersburg Fire Department began annual hose testing recently.  Crews will work for approximately two weeks to update testing on all of the department’s attack and supply hose on each piece of apparatus and in all hose towers. The Insurance Service Office (ISO) requires that testing be completed on an annual basis. Records of the…

VFW Post 1212 holds Patriot Day ceremony

The local chapter of the VFW honored first responders as part of their Patriot Day ceremony on Sunday September 11th, 2016.  Jon Lee, a 10 year veteran with the Parkersburg Fire Department received the Firefighter of the Year Award.

Parkersburg Fire Department responds to house fire

  The Parkersburg Fire Department responded to a structure fire late Saturday night. The occupants of the home discovered the fire and alerted 911. The call came in just after midnight, at 12:34 on August 28th, 2016. The department was on scene within three minutes to the structure at 705 31st Street. Once on scene,…

Parkersburg City Council passes Outdoor Fireplace Ordinance

A new city ordinance passed on July 26th, 2016 now allows city residents to use fire pits and outdoor chimneys.  See the attached document for the new regulations. A burn permit is still required for residents wanting to burn brush and vegetation on their property. The burn permit regulations are located under the FAQ section…

City of Parkersburg donates fire truck to Waverly

    On Tuesday August 23rd, 2016 Parkersburg City Council voted unanimously to donate the Fire Department’s Reserve Ladder to the Waverly Volunteer Fire Department. The truck was purchased new by the city in 1985 from Sutphen. The truck is equipped with an aluminum ladder and waterway that extends to 65 feet.  The department used…

PLEASE SHARE – Smoke alarms unable to wake children

Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery!

Spring time is upon us and it is time to change our clocks again. Daylight Savings Time ends this Sunday, March 9th and clocks will be set forward one hour. This year marks the 26th anniversary of the “Change Your Clock, Change Your Battery” program, created by Energizer and the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)….

House Fire – 2507 36th St

01/17/2014 – Around 11:00 p.m. Friday evening, a neighbor reported what they believed to be arcing power lines across from Worthington Elementary School. First arriving firefighters from West Virginia Avenue reported a working house fire at 2507 36th St. and requested a second alarm. The home was a rental owned by Alcinda Moore. The occupant, Tria…

House Fire – 1702 Market St

01/18/2014 – Around 1:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon, a neighbor reported a fire in a residential structure at 1702 Market St. The first engine company arrived from the fire station four blocks away and reported a working fire with heavy smoke showing. Neighbors told arriving firefighters that a man lived in the home by himself, but…

Frozen Sprinkler – Kroger, 2007 7th St

01/07/2014 – Around 4 p.m. Tuesday, firefighters were dispatched to the Kroger grocery store located on East 7th Street. The caller reported a heavy volume of dark water running into the front of the store. Upon arrival, the fire department determined the source to be a sprinkler line. It is presumed that the line froze…

Firefighters Battle Christmas Morning Fire

12/25/2013 – Firefighters battled an early morning Christmas fire that left a Parkersburg couple without a home. Around 10:30 Wednesday morning, firefighters were dispatched to 2607 Beech St, for a garage apartment fire. A passerby had noticed smoke coming from the residence and called 9-1-1. The first arriving engine reported a working fire with heavy…

Apartment Building Fire – 1059 31st St

12/23/2013 – At 3:42 a.m. Monday morning, Parkersburg firefighters were alerted to an apartment fire at 1059 31st St. The first engine arrived, from Fire Station 4 on West Virginia Ave, and reported heavy smoke showing from the basement of a two story brick duplex. The structural damage was contained to the basement of one…

Firefighters Hold Food Drive for Humane Society

Beginning Tuesday, December 2nd, the Parkersburg Fire Department will begin accepting food donations for the Humane Society of Parkersburg, during the fire department’s 2nd Annual Holiday Pet Food Drive. The city’s six fire stations will serve as drop off points. This event originated from an idea to give back to the community during the Christmas season…

Change Your Clock, Change Your Smoke Detector Battery

With the time change this Sunday, it reminds us to change and test the batteries in our smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. This message is simple and the habit can be lifesaving. The Parkersburg Fire Department reminds our residents that one easy step can help save their lives and the lives of those around them. Everyone…

Fire Department Announces Civil Service Test

10/23/2013 – The City of Parkersburg Fire Civil Service Commission will conduct an entrance test for Probationary Firefighter on January 22, 2014. The test results will remain good for 3 years. “These are highly competitive positions. Over the next three years, we may have only four or five firefighters retire, but we anticipate there will…

Four Transported to Hospital After Morning Fire

10/17/2013 – At 9:30 a.m. Thursday morning, Parkersburg firefighters responded to a working fire at 1047 Laird Ave. Dispatchers advised responding crews that four occupants were still in the house. Engine Company 3, from Liberty Street, reported heavy smoke showing with the front of the house well involved in flames. As firefighters arrived, the occupants…

Surge Protectors Recalled Due to Fire Hazard

Schneider Electric Recalls APC Surge Protectors Due to Fire Hazard Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Recall date: OCTOBER 03, 2013 Recall number: 14-001 Recall Summary Name of product: APC SurgeArrest surge protectors Hazard: The surge protectors can overheat, smoke and melt, posing…

Fire Prevention Week – Kitchen Fires!

Fire Prevention Week! The Great Chicago Fire of 1871 began on October 8th into October 9th. Most of its damage occurred on October 9th and it killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. Originally started as Fire Prevention Day in May, 1919, to…

SLEEPOVER FIRE SAFETY FOR KIDS

Is your child safe staying overnight at a friend’s home? NFPA offers a free Sleepover Checklist to help parents answer that age-old question, “Mom, can I sleep over at Dana’s house?” Think upset tummies and lack of sleep are the biggest risks when your child is spending the night at his or her friend’s house? “Think again,”…

PRESS RELEASE – Firefighters Complete Apprenticeship

PRESS RELEASE PARKERSBURG FIRE DEPARTMENT SEPTEMBER 16, 2013 CONTACT: FIRE CHIEF ERIC TAYLOR PHONE: 304-424-8470 EMAIL: ERIC.TAYLOR@PARKERSBURGFIRE.COM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Firefighters Complete Apprenticeship The Parkersburg Fire Department wishes to announce that Pvt. Cody Boyd and Pvt. Jeremy Layner recently completed their 6,000 hour apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and…

Gree Recalls 12 Brands of Dehumidifiers Due to Serious Fire and Burn Hazards

Gree Recalls 12 Brands of Dehumidifiers Due to Serious Fire and Burn Hazards Recall Summary Name of product: Dehumidifiers Hazard: The dehumidifiers can overheat, smoke and catch fire, posing fire and burn hazards to consumers. Remedy: Refund Consumer Contact: Gree toll-free at (866) 853-2802 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, and on Saturday from…

College Campus Fire Safety

September has been designated as “Campus Fire Safety Month”, with the goal of raising national awareness about the importance of protecting our young adults while they are away at college. In college housing, fires average $25 million in property damages per year. Carelessness with smoking materials and candles are the leading causes of civilian campus deaths….

Firefighters Team Up with National Campaign to Stop Gas Fires

Goal of summer effort is to reduce burn injuries to children Grilling outside and gathering around the campfire are summertime rituals for many families. This summer, parents and firefighters across the nation are working to keep outdoor fun from turning into tragedy by spreading the word that gasoline and fire never mix. An independent national…

Matthews Completes Fire Officer 3 Certification

Lt. Jason Matthews, of the Parkersburg Fire Department, recently completed 60 hours of instruction for certification as Fire Officer 3. The class was held during WV ESCAPE. The annual Emergency Services Conference is held annually at Pipestem State Park and consists of dozens of courses related to fire and EMS training. The objective of the…

New WV Camping Safety Website

West Virginia’s mountains provide a beautiful backdrop for recreational camps. There’s nothing more exciting than taking a hike in the woods, boating on a river or lake, sleeping under a starry night or simply enjoying the splendor of the scenery that surrounds you. While spending time outdoors in West Virginia, remember to be safe. The…

Turn Around, Don’t Drown

According to the U.S. National Weather Service, each year, more deaths occur due to flooding than from any other severe weather related hazard. The main reason is people underestimate the force and power of water. More than half of all flood related deaths result from vehicles being swept downstream. Of these, many are preventable. To…

Firefighters Complete Instructor Training

07/11/2013 – Several Parkersburg firefighters recently completed 48 hours of training to become certified at the level of Fire Instructor 2. With this certification, they will be able to function as a lead instructor. The firefighters completing certification include: Pvt. Kevin Ackerman Lt. Doug Ashley Lt. Brandon Brown Pvt. Randy Delancy Pvt. Jason Fleak, Training…

811 Pipeline Safety Campaign Begins

The USDOT is working together with the Pipeline and Hazardous Materials Safety Administration to engage in a national education campaign promoting safe digging practices to prevent injuries and deaths associated with incidents from pipelines. There are 2.5 million miles of pipeline in our nation, and one-third of major pipeline accidents are caused by someone digging and hitting…

Drowning Doesn’t Look Like Drowning

  In many child drownings, adults are nearby but have no idea the victim is dying. Here’s what to look for. This article is reprinted from Mario Vittone’s blog The new captain jumped from the deck, fully dressed, and sprinted through the water. A former lifeguard, he kept his eyes on his victim as he headed…

Storm Related Safety Tips

Prepare a Home Plan Pick a place where family members could gather, it could be a basement if there is no basement a center hallway, bathroom or closet on the lowest floor. If you live in a high rise building you should be in the center of the building or as close to center and the…

Parkersburg Crews Battle Early Morning House Fire

06-12-2013 Around 3 a..m. Wednesday morning, firefighters responded to a house fire at 1320 Wells Circle. The first arriving engine reported a working fire, with visible flames and smoke showing, heavily involved.  “The house sat back from the street on a hill with high grass and debris. It was very difficult for firefighters to access…

Fire Crews Respond on Two Separate Fires

06/10/2013 –  Parkersburg firefighters tackled two separate kitchen fires on Monday. The first fire occurred around 8:30 Monday morning. Crews were dispatched to Captain D’s, at 2201 Pike Street, for a fire in the kitchen. The first engine arrived from Blizzard drive within a couple minutes of dispatch and reported heavy smoke showing. They were…

Optimus Recalls Portable Electric Heaters Due to Fire Hazard

Optimus Recalls Portable Electric Heaters Due to Fire Hazard Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Recall date: MAY 15, 2013 Recall number: 13-191 Recall Summary Name of product: Portable Infrared Radiant Quartz Electric Space Heaters Hazard: The heater design can fail to prevent…

Fire Department Receives $5,000 Safety Education Grant

PARKERSBURG – Thirty-one nonprofit organizations in the Mid-Ohio Valley received grant funding from the Sisters of St. Joseph Charitable Fund in support of its vision of “healthy people in healthy communities.” At its spring meeting, the SSJCF’s Board of Directors approved a total of $427,727 in funding for the following nonprofit organizations: * Parkersburg Fire…

House Fire – 3405 Elm St

05/06/2013 –  Sunday evening, around 9:30 p.m., a neighbor reported visible flames and smoke coming from a house at 3405 Elm St. Firefighters arrived a couple minutes later and forced entry into the home. They discovered a fire in an unoccupied bedroom and quickly extinguished the fire.  Fire officials determined the cause to be an electrical…

Kitchen Fire – 3915 10th Ave

05/06/2013 – Around 5:30 p.m. Monday evening, firefighters responded to a kitchen fire at 3915 10th Avenue, off of Broadway Avenue. Upon arrival, Engine 5 reported smoke coming from a two story frame residence. The fire was quickly extinguished and fire damage was contained to the stove. The occupant was treated at the scene for…

This is from 2011, but we wished to place it on our website for future generations: Alligator captured on Quincy Hill Pet legal to own and maintain July 26, 2011 By JODY MURPHY (jmurphy@newsandsentinel.com) , Parkersburg News and Sentinel PARKERSBURG – Oh Troy Landry where at thou? The alligator-hunting star of the television show “Swamp People” would…

Equipment Fire at Mister Bee Potato Chips

04/30/2013 – Today, around 2:00 P.M., the Parkersburg Fire Department responded to a fire at Mister Bee Potato Chips, 511 32nd St. The first arriving engine reported smoke coming from the facility and declared a working fire. Upon entry, firefighters discovered a fire in the industrial fryer. Multiple engine companies responded and the fire was…

First Responders Ask for Help

Area firefighters and police officers are asking the public to help the spouse of a Wood County deputy sheriff. Angie Bussey, wife of Deputy Dave Bussey, was recently diagnosed with leukemia (blood cancer) and is in desperate need of help. She needs a donor for bone marrow or blood stem cells and the odds of…

House Fire – 1610 25th Street

4/22/2013 – Around 10 p.m. Saturday evening, Parkersburg firefighters responded to a house fire at 1610 25th St.  Engine 2 was first due from the station at 16th and Covert. They reported a working fire with heavy flames visible from the rear of the two story structure. “The fire appears to have originated at the…

Layner Selected as 2013 Firefighter of the Year

Jeremy Layner, 30, has been selected as Firefighter of the Year at the Parkersburg Fire Department. Layner joined the fire department in 2010 and currently works at Fire Station 5 on Blizzard Drive. Layner has spent much time on Blizzard Drive. He is a graduate of Parkersburg South High School. While there, he was a…

House Fire – 1702 Spring St

04/17/2013 – Around 9:00 a.m. Wednesday morning, a passerby walked into Fire Station 2 to report that they saw smoke coming from a house down the street. The engine company responded and requested a full assignment.  Upon arrival, the first engine company reported a working fire with heavy smoke and flames visible from a basement…

House Fire – 2103 44th St

4/8/2013 – Late Saturday evening, Parkersburg firefighters responded to a house fire at 2103 44th St. (off of Stella St.). The resident, Barbara Waters, told 9-1-1 dispatchers that there was heavy smoke coming from her laundry room. When the first engine arrived, they found fire around the hot water heater area of the laundry/utility room….

PRESS RELEASE – Firefighters Complete Apprenticeship

PRESS RELEASE PARKERSBURG FIRE DEPARTMENT APRIL 8, 2013 CONTACT: FIRE CHIEF ERIC TAYLOR PHONE: 304-424-8470 EMAIL: ERIC.TAYLOR@PARKERSBURGFIRE.COM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   The Parkersburg Fire Department wishes to announce that Pvt. Patrick Davis and Pvt. Chris Piggott recently completed their 6,000 hour apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and sponsored under…

Haier America Expands Recall of Chest Freezers Due to Fire Hazard

Recall Summary Name of product: Chest Freezers Hazard: A capacitor in the freezer’s circuitry can overheat, posing a fire hazard. Remedy: View Details Repair Consumer Contact: Haier America; toll-free at (877) 878-7579 from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET any day, or online atwww.haieramerica.com and click on Product Recalls for more information. Recall Details Units – About 41,000, 67,500 additional freezers were…

Fire Department Celebrates 116 Years

03/21/2013 – The city’s fire department began in 1887 when a fire warden was appointed to examine the stovepipes, fireplaces, flues and chimneys in each and every house within the limits of the city. Parkersburg’s first Fire Chief, John Barrows, was appointed on May 13, 1889 by an ordinance of City Council.  In the early years of…

Change Your Clock Change Your Battery

Daylight-saving time begins Sunday, March 10th, which reminds us to change and test the batteries in our smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. This message is simple and the habit can be lifesaving. The Parkersburg Fire Department reminds our residents that one easy step can help save their lives and the lives of those around them. Everyone is…

Two Women Rescued from Parkersburg House Fire

03/03/2013 – At 8:08 a.m., the Wood County 911 Center dispatched the Parkersburg Fire Department to a working house fire at 1004 Tygart St (off Pike St). The caller told dispatchers that she and her elderly mother were still in the home. Fire crews from the Camden Ave. station arrived a couple minutes later to…

Spring Forest Fire Season

  The Spring forest fire burning season begins Mar 1 and runs through May 31. The regulations are different for those residing within the municipal boundaries of the City of Parkersburg. FOR CITY OF PARKERSBURG RESIDENTS A burning permit, issued by the fire department, is required to burn in Parkersburg. There is no charge for…

CHIMINEA SAFETY

  The word chiminea refers to several different styles and types, but the word generally refers to outdoor fireplaces. These outdoor, clay fireplaces have existed for hundreds of years and have been used by many cultures worldwide. They are strictly for use outside and should never be operated over any combustible materials like a wooden deck or a…

House Fire – 1939 East 7th St.

Early Monday morning, around 7:30 a.m., Parkersburg firefighters responded to a house fire at 1739 East 7th St. The first due engine reported heavy smoke showing from a single story residence. Upon entry, they found the bulk of the fire in the front living room area and extending into the kitchen. Traffic on 7th was…

Pifer Receives EMT License

  02/13/2013 – Lieutenant Michael Pifer recently completed the 160 hour Emergency Medical Technician program and received his licensure. The course consists of extensive training in several different subjects related to emergency medicine. Over 90% of the fire department’s members are EMTs. The department responds to nearly 2,000 requests annually for medical assistance, including automobile…

Fire at WV Division of Highways’ Office – 626 Depot St

2/12/2013 – Tuesday evening, around 7:30 p.m., Parkersburg firefighters were dispatched to a fire alarm at the Division of Highways’ office, located at 626 Depot Street. Fire crews quickly arrived from the downtown fire station and reported smoke coming from the structure. Upon entry, they discovered a heating and cooling unit on fire. The fire…

BlueStar Wall Ovens Recalled by Prizer Painter Stove Works Due to Fire Hazard

———–NEWS from CPSC———– U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission Office of Communications 4330 East West Highway, Bethesda, MD 20814, www.cpsc.gov ******************************************************** BlueStar Wall Ovens Recalled by Prizer Painter Stove Works Due to Fire Hazard Consumers should stop using this product unless otherwise instructed. It is illegal to resell or attempt to resell a recalled consumer product. Recall…

Burn Awareness Week: Scalds

Burn Awareness Week: February 3-9, 2013 Topic: Scalds GENERAL BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON SCALD BURNS Although scald burns can happen to anyone, young children, older adults and people with disabilities are the most likely to incur such injuries. Most scald burn injuries happen in the home, in connection with the preparation or serving of hot food…

Red vs. Yellow Firetrucks

The following article was borrowed from the Sandusky (OH) Fire Department. Over the last 35 years, there has much discussion about yellow (safety green) fire trucks. Please enjoy: City of Sandusky Fire Department Did You Know! We may not like to admit it, but at one time, even if it was for a short time,…

PRESS RELEASE – Firefighters Complete Apprenticeship

PRESS RELEASE PARKERSBURG FIRE DEPARTMENT JANUARY 31, 2013 CONTACT: FIRE CHIEF ERIC TAYLOR PHONE: 304-424-8470 EMAIL: ERIC.TAYLOR@PARKERSBURGFIRE.COM FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE   The Parkersburg Fire Department wishes to announce that Pvt. Sam Rutherford and Pvt. Josh Gandee recently completed their 6,000 hour apprenticeship. The apprenticeship is administered by the U.S. Department of Labor and sponsored under…

Home Inspection Checklist

Certain conditions in a home can contribute to a higher danger of fire. The Parkersburg Fire Department suggests that you answer the following questions to recognize hazards that may exist in your home: Is there at least one smoke detector on each level of your house? If your smoke detector is battery powered, do you…

Charity Basketball Game Sunday: Law Enforcement vs. Firefighters

Law Enforcement vs. Firefighters Charity Basketball Game Sunday, Feb 3rd 2:00-5:00 p.m. Rod Oldham Athletic Center – Parkersburg South High School Entry by donation Proceeds to benefit the Adventure Pursuit program  

Smart Choices for Smoke Alarm Placement

News Release on Alarm Placement Contact: Fire Chief Eric Taylor Phone: 304-424-8470 Date: January 28, 2013 Parkersburg Fire Department Urges Homeowners to Make Smart Choices when Installing Smoke Alarms Throughout Their Home Working smoke alarms throughout the home increases the chances of surviving a fire In an effort to reduce the number of fatalities in home…

Firefighters Perform Snowy Rescue

01/26/2013 – Around 3:30 p.m. Saturday afternoon, Parkersburg firefighters were dispatched to a sledding accident in the 1800 block of 8th Ave.  (South Parkersburg).  A 33 year old female was inner tubing, with her own and several neighborhood children, when she proceeded past the end of the course and landed approximately 12 feet down in…

Kitchen Fire Scorches South Parkersburg Home- 3925 11th Ave

01/24/3012 – Around 10:45 p.m. Thursday evening, firefighters were dispatched to a house fire at 3925 11th Ave (near Broadway Ave). The resident informed 9-1-1 dispatchers that the home was filling up with smoke. Engine 5 was first due from Blizzard Drive and found a dryer fire in the kitchen. Flames charred the interior walls…

Firefighters Extinguish Apartment Mattress Fire – 1250 31st St

01/24/2013 – Shortly before 3:30 p.m. Thursday afternoon, the Parkersburg Fire Department responded to an automatic fire alarm at Parkland Place, an 8 story apartment complex, located at 1250 31st St. A resident had returned home to his third floor apartment and, upon entering, found the room full of heavy smoke. He returned to the hallway…

Winter Fire Safety Tips

Heating equipment is the second leading cause of home fires in the United States. With the recent dip in temperature, the Parkersburg Fire Department makes the following suggestions to keep your home fire safe this Winter: SPACE HEATER SAFETY Keep your heating equipment and anything that can burn at least 3 feet apart. Plug power…

HOUSE FIRE DISPLACES PARKERSBURG FAMILY

The fire department was dispatched around 10:30 a.m. Wednesday to a house fire at 4110 8th Ave. Upon arrival, firefighters encountered heavy fire conditions. “The fire was well advanced before notification of the fire department. Interior fires crews managed to knock down the bulk of the fire, but the fire had traveled up the wall…

Woman Rescued from House Fire – 1209 Juliana St

01/20/2013 – At 6:31 a.m. Sunday morning, a female caller reported to the Wood County 911 Center that her house was on fire and she was trapped in a second floor bedroom. The Parkersburg Fire Department was dispatched to 1209 Juliana St and the first engine arrived 6:34 a.m. They arrived to find the rear…

UPDATE: Food Drive to Benefit Humane Society of Parkersburg

UPDATE: 12/27/2012 The Parkersburg Fire Department recently completed it’s 1st Annual Pet Food Drive to benefit the Humane Society of Parkersburg. The event ran for the week immediately prior to Christmas. Due to overwhelming support from the community, the event was a huge success. “Today firefighters delivered two and a half truck loads of supplies…

House fire – 1264 31st St

12/23/2012 – Around 9:15 p.m. Saturday evening, Parkersburg firefighters were dispatched to a house fire at 1264 31st St. The resident noticed smoke in the residence and, upon further investigation, found “three feet tall” flames in the attic. The first due engine company arrived a couple minutes later from Fire Station 4, on West Virginia…

House fire – 1503 Park Ave

12/19/2012 – Parkersburg firefighters responded to 1503 Park Ave shortly before 11 p.m. last night. A passerby reported smoke coming from the house to the Wood County 911 Center. First arriving engine companies reported heavy smoke coming from a two story brick residence. Upon entry, firefighters were met with a house full of stored furnishings,…

Food Drive to Benefit Humane Society of Parkersburg

  Beginning Monday, December 17th, the Parkersburg Fire Department will begin accepting food donations for the Humane Society of Parkersburg, during the fire department’s 1st Annual Holiday Pet Food Drive. The city’s six fire stations will serve as drop off points. This event originated from an idea to give back to the community during the Christmas…

Recall on Low Lead Ball Valves

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE December 11, 2012 Release #13-064  Firm’s Recall Hotline: (855) 779-9200 CPSC Recall Hotline: (800) 638-2772 CPSC Media Contact: (301) 504-7908 Fu San Machinery Recalls Low Lead Ball Valves Installed in Flammable Gas Lines Due to Fire and Explosion Hazards WASHINGTON, D.C. – The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission, in cooperation with the firm named below, today announced…

Give the Gifts That Save Lives

This year, give someone a life-saving Christmas gift: a smoke detector, a fire extinguisher or a carbon monoxide detector. They are inexpensive and can be purchased at most department and hardware stores. Smoke detectors save lives by alarming occupants of a fire. When a fire breaks out in a house with a smoke detector, the smoke quickly…

Parkersburg House Fire – 2505 9th Ave

Shortly before noon Saturday, Parkersburg firefighters were dispatched to 2505 9th Ave (off Pike St) for a house fire. The first engine company arrived within 3 minutes and reported smoke coming from a one story frame structure. The fire was quickly knocked down, but fire crews remained for a couple hours searching for hot spots…

“It can take 7 years to grow a Christmas tree… and 7 SECONDS for it to become an inferno!”

Each year, fire departments respond to an average of 210 structure fires caused by Christmas trees. Carefully decorating Christmas trees can help make your holidays safer.   Download these NFPA safety tips on Christmas trees. (PDF, 1 MB) Picking the tree If you have an artificial tree, be sure it is labeled, certified, or identified by the manufacturer…