News - Virginia Department of Fire Programs

Governor Spanberger Appoints Jamey Brads as Deputy Director

Governor Spanberger announced Jamey Brads as Deputy Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

Brads joined VDFP in 2016 as the Chief of Heavy Technical Rescue, known today as Special Operations, before being promoted to Chief of Training and Operations.

He has worked in the fire service for over 30 years, serving in multiple roles including firefighter, company officer and chief officer. He is a member of Virginia Task Force 2, FEMA Urban Search and Rescue team based in Virginia Beach, and is a Division/Group Supervisor on the Federal Incident Support Team supporting national urban search and rescue operations. Brads is also a FEMA instructor in both the Structural Collapse Specialist and Heavy Equipment Rigging Specialist disciplines.

Brads serves on three NFPA committees for technical rescue training, operations, and equipment. He is a member of the International Association of Fire Chiefs Urban Search and Rescue committee and serves on the executive board of the State Urban Search and Rescue Alliance. Brads serves as the commonwealth’s representative for the National Fire Academy and the North American Fire Training Directors.

Brads has two associates degrees, a bachelor’s degree in emergency disaster management and is currently finishing up his master’s degree in homeland security/disaster management. He has been married for 30 years and has two adult sons who both work in public safety.

VDFP extends sincere appreciation to Nick Nanna for his service as VDFP Deputy Director in Governor Youngkin’s administration.

Nanna oversaw training and operations, safety, and government affairs. He also assisted with implementing various initiatives on behalf of the Executive Director.

We wish him all the best in retirement!

Governor-Elect Spanberger Appoints Brad Creasy as Executive Director

Contact:

Will Merritt

VDFP Public Information Officer

804-249-1986

pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICHMOND – Governor-elect Spanberger today announced Brad Creasy as Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs.

“I am honored to be reappointed as Executive Director of the Virginia Department of Fire Programs,” said Brad Creasy. “I’m grateful for the trust placed in me and look forward to building on our progress, strengthening partnerships, and ensuring Virginia remains a leader in fire service training, safety, and preparedness.”

Since joining VDFP in May 2022, Creasy has led a transformation of the agency focused on innovation and streamlining agency procedures. He raised adjunct instructor pay to stay competitive in the market, initiated the agency’s move to computer-based testing, and remained focused on advocating for funding and key priorities in support of Virginia’s fire service.

Creasy is an accomplished public safety professional with more than three decades of fire and emergency services experience.

He began his career with the Bedford Volunteer Fire Department before becoming a career firefighter with the Roanoke Fire-EMS Department. Creasy served in Roanoke City for 21 years and rose through the ranks to captain. Creasy was also the fire chief for the Town of Bedford for 15 years.

Creasy received his bachelor’s degree in Business Administration from Liberty University. He is a Virginia Fire Officer Academy graduate and holds the Chief Fire Officer Designation (CFO) from the Center for Public Safety Excellence and is currently pursuing his Executive Fire Officer credential.

To read the full announcement from the transition team, click this link: https://spanbergertransition.com/news/governor-elect-spanberger-announces-additional-staff-administration-appointments/

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Virginia Officials Stress Firework Safety This 4th of July Holiday

Contact:

Will Merritt

VDFP Public Information Officer

804-249-1986

pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CHARLOTTESVILLE, VA (July 1, 2025) – As communities across Virginia prepare for Fourth of July festivities, state officials are urging residents to prioritize safety and celebrate responsibly. Fireworks continue to pose a significant risk during holiday festivities. According to the Consumer Product Safety Commission, an estimated 14,700 people across the U.S. were injured by fireworks last year — an increase of about 52% compared to 2023. While public fireworks displays are the safest option, many still choose to light fireworks at home. The Virginia Department of Fire Programs and Virginia Department of Forestry are reminding everyone to take precautions if they plan to use fireworks on their own. Remember, even seemingly harmless items – like sparklers – can cause severe burns. Temperatures from sparklers can reach more than 2,000 degrees.

“The Virginia State Fire Marshal's Office strongly encourages Virginians to celebrate safely and responsibly by leaving fireworks to the professionals,” said Chief State Fire Marshal Billy Hux. “In general, any firework that explodes, moves on the ground or in the air, or shoots a projectile is illegal unless you are licensed pyrotechnician in the Commonwealth of Virginia. Possession or use of illegal fireworks in Virginia is a Class 1 misdemeanor per item possessed or used. Each Class 1 misdemeanor conviction carries a fine of up to $2,500 and one year in jail.” “Both legal and illegal fireworks can quickly ignite wildfires that put entire communities at risk,” said Chief of Fire and Emergency Response John Miller. “Only use fireworks in safe spaces away from people, houses and flammable material (dry grass, leaves, storm debris). Fireworks are also the cause of thousands of personal injuries each year. Celebrate safely this Fourth of July and remain mindful of your surroundings, neighbors and community.”

Some localities completely ban the sale, possession and use of any type of fireworks, including sparklers. Contact your local fire marshal, fire officials, or law enforcement about local restrictions and laws in the area you plan to use. If you are found responsible for having started a wildfire with fireworks, you may be liable for suppression and reclamation costs and could even face fines and imprisonment.

Visit the Virginia Department of Fire Programs' website to learn more about fireworks laws and what fireworks are approved by the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Fireworks safety tips:

Children should never be allowed to handle fireworks. Keep flammable materials out of reach.
Only legal consumer-grade fireworks should be used.
Never point fireworks at anyone else.
Maintain a safe distance after lighting.
When lighting fireworks, never place any part of your body over them.
Never pick up or re-light fireworks that haven’t gone off.
Do not use fireworks that appear damaged or altered.
Keep a bucket of water or charged hose nearby to douse spent fireworks or in case of mishaps.
Pets may be frightened by fireworks. Plan accordingly.
Note: No fireworks of any kind are EVER allowed on federal lands.

For more information on fireworks safety, visit the Virginia Department of Forestry website at https://dof.virginia.gov/wildland-prescribed-fire/wildfire-prevention/fireworks-safety/.

The 2024 Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service

About the 2024 Memorial Service

The 27th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 1, 2024 at the Richmond International Raceway Complex, Main Exhibition Hall. This event is open to the public.

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person.

This year's Memorial Service will honor fallen firefighters who have been recognized under the Virginia Line of Duty Act in 2023 for their bravery and dedication to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

2024 Honorees

Larry W. Akers - Longshop-McCoy Fire and Rescue
James M. Alexander Jr. - Hanover County Fire-EMS
James E. Brewster - D.A.D Volunteer Fire Department
Ernest N. Cash - Monelison Volunteer Fire Department
Matthew R. Chiaverotti - Virginia Beach Fire Department
Cameron B. Craig - Abingdon Fire Department
Mia Ethridge - Louisa County Fire and EMS
James A. Foster - Rice Volunteer Fire Department
Brian R. Hricik - Alexandria Fire Department
Helen "Gracey" C. Humbert - Botetourt County Fire and EMS
Chester T. Lauck - Frederick County Fire and Rescue
William A. McFarland - Richmond Department of Fire and Emergency Services
Gregory C. Meinel - Vinton First Aid Crew
Alicia A. Monahan - Chesterfield County Fire and EMS
Rory "Bud" C. Swanson - Lower King and Queen Volunteer Fire Department
Stephen D. Whitson - Henrico County Division of Fire
Rocky S. Wood - Virginia Department of Forestry

Live Stream Information and Digital Program Access

Click here to watch the recording of the service on YouTube

Main Point of Contact:
For more information on the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

About the Memorial Service

The Memorial Service will include a keynote address, a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession, a musical performance, and a fire and EMS apparatus display from departments throughout the Commonwealth. State flags will be presented to the families of the fallen.

History of the Memorial Service

The Virginia Fire Services Board established the Memorial Service and enlisted the services of a Memorial Service Committee to plan the annual event. The committee is comprised of representatives from fire departments, family representatives of fallen firefighters previously honored, the Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Honor Guard from across the Commonwealth participate each year, as well as fire departments from across Virginia who display apparatus for the Memorial Service.
A reception immediately following the Memorial Service is open to the families, distinguished guests, and the public.

Virginia Fallen Firefighter and EMS Facts

For more than 20 years, on the first Saturday in June, firefighters and EMS personnel who have died in the line of duty or have been recognized by the Virginia Line of Duty Act in the previous year, are honored at the Virginia Fire and EMS Memorial Service.
With the completion and dedication of the Virginia Public Safety Memorial, names of firefighters who are honored may also be added to the wall of the memorial annually.

Contact Information

For more information about the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

2023 Structural Collapse Specialist School Scholarship

VDFP is currently accepting applications for scholarships to attend the VATF-2 Structural Collapse Specialist Course in Virginia Beach! Candidates must be in good standing with a local, regional or divisional technical rescue team and have Operations/Level 1 certification at a minimum in all core VDFP technical rescue courses in order to be considered for the scholarship.

The deadline to apply for the scholarship is by 5:00pm on Friday, August 4, 2023.

To apply, complete the following steps:

Obtain a letter of recommendation from your department head or team leader, provided on departmental letterhead.
Complete the VATF-2 SCS student application and follow the instructions on the form for payment and submission
Complete the VDFP scholarship application
Submit the VDFP scholarship application and the letter of recommendation to Chad Riddleberger, Division Chief of Heavy Technical Rescue

Guide to Fireworks in the Commonwealth

Many local jurisdictions prohibit the use of all fireworks. Check with your locality to determine any local regulations.

In accordance with Section §27-96.1 of the Code of Virginia, unless prohibited by a local ordinance, the provisions of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code pertaining to fireworks shall not apply to the sale of or to any person using, igniting, or exploding permissible fireworks on private property with the consent of the owner of such property.

The fireworks listed in the 2025 Virginia Permissible Fireworks List have been field tested to compare the items to the performance criteria of the American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) and are classified as "permissible fireworks" for purposes of applying and enforcing the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. The requirements for the sale or use of other than permissible fireworks, including certification and permit requirements, can be found in Chapter 56 of the Statewide Fire Prevention Code.

CAUTION: Code of Virginia §27.97 allows local jurisdictions to adopt fire prevention regulations that are more restrictive or more extensive in scope than the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. Many local jurisdictions prohibit the use of all fireworks. Individuals should check with their city, county or town to determine any local regulations.

Click the graphics below to download and share on social media. Remember the only safe way to celebrate is by attending public displays. Leave fireworks to the professionals!

The Purpose of the Permissible Fireworks List

Each year countless Virginians are injured or worse due to fireworks. Pictured below is the State Fire Marshal's Office annual field testing of fireworks to compare the items to the performance criteria of the American Fireworks Standards Laboratory (AFSL) and are classified as "permissible fireworks" for purposes of applying and enforcing the Statewide Fire Prevention Code. These tests make sure only code compliant consumer grade fireworks are bought/sold in the Commonwealth of Virginia.

Firework safety tips

The only safe way to view fireworks is by attending public displays and leaving the lighting of fireworks to the professionals.

Be Proactive

Purchase only legal fireworks available at approved stands. Never craft your own fireworks or combine multiple fireworks.
Keep a bucket of water nearby in which all used fireworks can be placed.
Know the laws for your specific locality as local jurisdictions may adopt fire prevention regulations that are more restrictive or extensive in scope than the Statewide Fire Prevention Code.

Be Safe While Using

Use eye protection, wear safety goggles.
Always read and follow the directions on the label.
Never point fireworks at people, pets, cars or buildings.
Do not use fireworks near tall dry grassy fields, combustible materials or wooded areas.
Do not use under the influence of alcohol or controlled substances.

Disposal of Fireworks

After you finish — clean up all debris when finished. Duds (fireworks that didn't function) can be dangerous; if a device does not light or fire, an adult should wait at least 15 minutes, approach it carefully, and place it in a bucket of water.
Be sure all unused fireworks, matches and lighters are out of the sight and reach of children.
Dispose of fireworks properly. Soak them completely in water before putting them in the trash can.
Monitor the area for several hours after using fireworks.

Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service Scheduled for June 3

The Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) invites the public to attend the 2023 Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service on Saturday, June 3.

The memorial service will begin at noon at the Richmond Raceway Complex in the Main Exhibition Hall.

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service was established to honor firefighters and EMS personnel who perished in the line of duty, in accordance with the Virginia Line of Duty Act (§ 9.1-400).

Emergency response personnel, government officials, and public safety members will gather to celebrate the courage and dedication of each honoree. The Memorial Service includes a keynote address, a Virginia Fire Services Honor Guard procession, a musical performance, and a fire and EMS apparatus display from departments throughout the Commonwealth.

This year's service will honor ten fallen firefighters:

• Gary C. Campbell - Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management
• TyVaughn N. Eldridge - Chesterfield Fire and EMS
• Christopher G. Griffin - City of Norfolk Fire Rescue
• Robert W. Nelms - Fries Fire and Rescue
• Jeffrey T. Rizzo - Loudoun County Fire Rescue
• Kimberly A. Schoppa - Fairfax County Fire and Rescue
• James A. Sturgill - Pound Volunteer Fire Department
• Gregory V. Thomas - City of Danville Fire Department
• Michael W. Webb - Callaway Volunteer Fire Department
• Herbert T. Wilcox - Rocky Mount Fire Department

For those who cannot attend in person, the Virginia Fallen Firefighters and EMS Memorial Service will also be streamed live on VDFP’s social media and website: www.vafire.com.

The 2023 Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service

Watch the Live Stream Below!

Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service Live Stream

The 26th annual Virginia Fallen Firefighters & Emergency Medical Services Memorial Service will be held at 12 p.m. on Saturday, June 3, 2023 at the Richmond International Raceway Complex, Main Exhibition Hall. This event is open to the public.

The Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service will be streamed live for those who cannot attend in person.

This year's Memorial Service will honor fallen firefighters who have been recognized under the Virginia Line of Duty Act in 2022 for their bravery and dedication to the citizens of the Commonwealth.

2023 Honorees

Gary C. Campbell - Spotsylvania County Fire, Rescue and Emergency Management
TyVaughn Eldridge - Chesterfield Fire and EMS
Christopher G. Griffin - City of Norfolk Fire Rescue
Robert W. Nelms - Fries Fire & Rescue
Jeffrey T. Rizzo - Loudoun County Fire Rescue
Kimberly A. Schoppa - Fairfax County Fire and Rescue
James A. Sturgill - Pound Volunteer Fire Department
Gregory V. Thomas - City of Danville Fire Department
Michael W. Webb - Callaway Volunteer Fire Department
Herbert T. Wilcox - Rocky Mount Fire Department

Honor Guard:

Individuals or departments interested in Honor Guard participation should contact Toby Martin at Tmartin@roanokecountyva.gov.

Sending Apparatus:

If your department is interested in sending apparatus to the Memorial Service, please contact Memorial Service Committee Member Floyd Greene at floydpowhatan@gmail.com.

Main Point of Contact:
For more information on the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

About the 2023 Memorial Service

History of the Memorial Service

The Virginia Fire Services Board established the Memorial Service and enlisted the services of a Memorial Service Committee to plan the annual event. The committee is comprised of representatives from fire departments, family representatives of fallen firefighters previously honored, the Office of Emergency Medical Services and the Virginia Department of Fire Programs. Honor Guard from across the Commonwealth participate each year, as well as fire departments from across Virginia who display apparatus for the Memorial Service.
A reception immediately following the Memorial Service is open to the families, distinguished guests, and the public.

Virginia Fallen Firefighter and EMS Facts

For more than 20 years, on the first Saturday in June, firefighters and EMS personnel who have died in the line of duty or have been recognized by the Virginia Line of Duty Act in the previous year, are honored at the Virginia Fire and EMS Memorial Service.
With the completion and dedication of the Virginia Public Safety Memorial, names of firefighters who are honored may also be added to the wall of the memorial annually.

Contact Information

For more information about the Virginia Fallen Firefighters & EMS Memorial Service, contact VDFP PIO Will Merritt at (804) 249-1986 or william.merritt@vdfp.virginia.gov.

2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards Nominations Open Through December 16, 2022

2022 Governor's Fire Service Awards Nominations Now Open

Nominations accepted until December 16, 2022

RICHMOND - November 1, 2022 - The Virginia Department of Fire Programs, a leader in enhancing public safety, in conjunction with the Virginia Fire Services Board, are seeking nominations for the 2022 Governor’s Fire Service Awards, which honors and recognizes excellence in Fire Services in the Commonwealth.

The annual Governor’s Fire Service Awards is presented in eight categories during the Virginia Fire Rescue Conference held in February at the Virginia Beach Convention Center.

Nominations can be submitted through an online form on the VDFP website through December 16, 2022.

About the Governor’s Fire Service Awards

The Governor’s Fire Service Awards were established in 2002. In partnership with the Virginia Fire Services Board, the VDFP facilitates the awards. The Virginia Secretary of Public Safety and Homeland Security presents the Governor with award recommendations, at which the final recipients are then selected. Award categories:

Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia Community Risk Reduction
Governor’s Award for Excellence in Virginia’s Fire Service Training
Governor’s Award for Outstanding Fire Department Response
Governor’s Award for Private Sector Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Civilian Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Support
Governor’s Virginia Firefighter of the Year
Governor’s Virginia Fire Chief of the Year

Among the 2021 recipients were Loudoun County Combined Fire and Rescue High Threat Team and the Occoquan Woodbridge Lorton Volunteer Fire Department, who were recognized for Excellence in Virginia Fire Service Training and Outstanding Fire Department Response, respectively. Read more about the 2021 Governor's Fire Service awards recipients

About the Virginia Department of Fire Programs The Virginia Department of Fire Programs provides training, support services, and resources to more than 700 fire and emergency service organizations, and approximately 44,000 fire service personnel in the Commonwealth. Support areas include funding, professional development, research, operational support, technical assistance, and fire prevention inspections through its State Fire Marshal's Office.

“Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape” by following these safety tips

"Fire Won't Wait, Plan Your Escape" by following these safety tips

Contact:

Will Merritt

VDFP Public Information Officer

804-249-1986

pio@vdfp.virginia.gov

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICHMOND (October 14, 2022) – As National Fire Prevention Week comes to an end, the Virginia Department of Fire Programs (VDFP) reminds Virginians that fire prevention is not just a week-long event but a year-round focus.

“Fire education is not just for children,” said Ken Brown, Community Risk Reduction Coordinator. “National Fire Prevention Week is about making sure everyone – kids, adults and seniors – understand how to stay safe in case of a fire.”

Follow these ten safety tips to keep you and your family safe:

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and outside of each bedroom
Create a home escape plan with your family and routinely practice fire drills together
Establish an outdoor meeting place for your family to gather in the event of a fire
Test smoke alarms every month and change batteries at least once a year
Keep a fire extinguisher in your home
Store matches and lighters in a safe spot and out of reach from children
Never leave a burning candle unattended
Keep portable heaters at least three feet away from anything that can burn
Use electricity safely by never overloading circuits and replacing cracked or frayed cords
Have your furnace and chimney inspected and cleaned every year

The 2022 Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Fire Won’t Wait, Plan Your Escape,” works to educate everyone about simple but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe from home fires. This week, VDFP released fire safety tips to help Virginians be prepared in case of an emergency:

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