Dispatches
West Virginia recognizes firefighter efforts during recent crises
The month of May was proclaimed “West Virginia Fire Service Recognition Month” by the state’s Governor Arch A. Moore, Jr.
This proclamation was made in appreciation of the dedication that has been shown by the state’s 10,000 firefighters, who have been performing under extremely adverse conditions over the past months.
In November 1985, West Virginia experienced its worst flooding disaster in 50 years.
Over 5,000 firefighters from 250 departments responded immediately to this crisis situation and continued to serve the public throughout the disaster without concern for their own personal safety or property.
An additional 180 fire departments from other parts of the state provided support and assistance. Fire departments from neighboring states also helped out.
The devastating floods damaged some fire stations, apparatus, and equipment. The cost of repairs and replacement has been estimated at $2million.
Another crisis situation occurred in the state during the spring forest fire season.
The large number of simultaneous fires taxed firefighting personnel, equipment, and resources to the limit. As a result, Governor Moore was required to proclaim a state of emergency and invoke a ban on outdoor burning.
Many West Virginia firefighters have sustained serious line-of-duty injuries in other incidents over the past year. There have been three fatalities; one was in 1985 and the other two were this year.
The disasters of Fall 1985 and Spring 1986 have required far more than the “normal” amount of sacrifice and effort from the state’s firefighters. Governor Moore encouraged all West Virginians to become aware of the services provided by the firefighters, and to reflect on the lives and property protected and saved by their dedicated efforts.
