Local Volunteer Fire Departments Rallied to Fight Brush Fires Saturday

Amid the chaos that stemmed from the Prince William County Saturday, volunteer firefighters were risking their lives to protect the Woodbridge community.

Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department, called in all off duty firefighters to help staff every available fire truck.

said that in addition to the normal department apparatus that was staffed, OWL VFD volunteers came in to staff two additional engines, two brush trucks, and four special services units and an extra battalion chief.

“We ran out of fire trucks for people to staff, so we sent them to a neighboring department to help staff additional fire trucks there. All together over 35 off duty volunteer first responders reported to our stations,” said Chief Jim McAllister of OWL VFD. “This is further proof that the combination, career and volunteer, fire and rescue system works and works well here in Prince William County.”

Many Prince William County volunteer fire departments and the Department of Fire and Rescue recalled their personnel as well.

“OWL VFD is committed to community safety. These men and women, and all our volunteers, exemplify the spirit of OWL VFD. We strive to provide the very best fire suppression, emergency medical, technical rescue, and water rescue services to the citizens and visitors of Woodbridge, Virginia and Prince William County," said Chief McAllister.

OWL VFD is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire departments in the United States with over 300 members. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care and rescue services to 80,000 residents in the 27-square mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer firefighters and EMTs work the 6 p.m. to 6 a.m. shift, five days a week, plus 24/7 holidays and weekends.