Ferrisburgh Vol. Fire Dept.

05/30/2026

Today, members of the Ferrisburgh Fire Department Firefighter 1 class trained alongside Ferrisburgh instructors, Essex instructors, and fellow recruits during a live-fire training exercise.

Participants gained valuable hands-on experience in fire suppression, search and rescue operations, and firefighting tactics while working in realistic fire conditions and experiencing the heat and challenges encountered on actual emergency scenes.

This type of training is essential in building the skills, confidence, and teamwork needed to safely and effectively serve our community.

We would like to thank all of the instructors who dedicated their time and expertise to make this training possible. We would also like to extend a special thank you to the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad for providing rehab and medical support throughout the day, helping ensure the safety and well-being of all participants.

Great job to all involved!

Vergennes Area Rescue Squad
Fire Department

05/26/2026

Our thoughts and prayers are with the members of Vergennes Area Rescue Squad as they navigate the loss of President John Weber.

It is with the heaviest of hearts that we announce the passing of our current President, John Weber, who lost his courageous battle with cancer on Monday May 25th, 2026.

John dedicated 7 years of volunteer service to the Vergennes Area Rescue Squad and nearly 40 years of service in Fire and EMS serving different departments and communities. His commitment, compassion, leadership, and unwavering dedication to helping others were truly unmatched. John was the kind of person who would do anything for anyone without hesitation. He gave so much of himself to his community, his fellow responders, and every person whose life he touched.

To many, John was more than a leader. He was a mentor, a teacher, a trusted friend, and a steady presence in difficult moments. He inspired those around him through his selflessness, kindness, and quiet strength. The impact he made on the lives of so many can never be fully measured, and his absence will be deeply felt throughout our community and within his EMS and Fire family.

John leaves behind his beloved wife, Holly, and his daughters, Emily and Sydney, along with extended family, countless friends, coworkers, and members of his EMS and Fire family who loved and respected him dearly.

During this incredibly difficult time, we ask that you keep John’s family, friends, and the members of VARS in your thoughts as we all navigate this heartbreaking loss together.

Information regarding services and arrangements will be shared once plans have been finalized.

Rest easy, John. Thank you for your years of service, your friendship, your guidance, and the countless lives you helped along the way. VARS 120 - We have it from here.

Sincerely,
Christina Brace
Vice President
Vergennes Area Rescue Squad

04/30/2026

Tonight at the firehouse, the Fire 1 class worked on search and rescue skills and maneuvers, led by our in-house instructor along with a guest instructor from Essex Fire Department.

Meanwhile, the rest of the Ferrisburgh members focused on pump training and getting hands-on experience with our newer E2 engine—providing valuable time operating equipment they don’t always get to use.

We also had the opportunity to train with a new piece of equipment donated by the Long Point Association—the Dolphin pump. This floating suction pump allows us to supply water to our apparatus in areas where tankers or other engines can’t reach. We’d like to thank the association for their generous donation and continued support.

Additionally, we’re excited to welcome our new utility trailer, replacing our aging rehab trailer. This versatile unit will support a variety of operations, including wildland fires, spill cleanup, ice water rescue, rehab, and more. It will also serve as the future home for a utility ATV as the department continues to expand its capabilities.

04/28/2026

We are currently under Red Flag conditions. No burn permits will be issued until further notice.

Thank you for your understanding.

Mike Coyle
Ferrisburgh Fire Warden

04/25/2026

This weekend, members of the Ferrisburgh Fire Department, along with multiple departments and agencies from across the county, are participating in the ACFA (Addison County Firefighters Association) County Fire School.

This annual training event offers a wide range of programs for members to learn from, led by skilled instructors from across the United States. Courses cover topics such as basic firefighting, vehicle extrication, pump operations, water rescue, radio communications, and drug and alcohol impairment recognition.

This year’s Fire School is dedicated to our own retired Chief, David Bowels. Dave has served over 45 years in the fire service, including 11 years as Chief of the Ferrisburgh Fire Department. His dedication and leadership have made a lasting impact on the department and the community.

04/18/2026

Today the Ferrisburgh Fire 1 class focused on hands-on skill drills, including ropes and knots, ladder throws, extinguisher use, and hose line advancement in tight spaces.

While learning proper tactics from the book is essential, getting hands-on training is what truly builds confidence and proficiency on the fireground.

04/09/2026

Tonight, Ferrisburgh Fire’s Firefighter 1 class trained on forcible entry techniques.

Forcible entry is a critical skill in the fire service, allowing firefighters to quickly gain access to buildings during emergencies where time matters most. Whether it’s getting to a fire, reaching a patient, or searching for occupants, being able to force entry efficiently can make all the difference.

A big thank you to Saint Michael’s Fire and Rescue for the donation of their door prop. This valuable training tool gave our recruits the opportunity for hands-on practice—far more effective than lecture alone.

We appreciate the support in helping us build stronger, more prepared firefighters.

04/03/2026

The Ferrisburgh Fire Department is offering our 1992 Wells Cargo 8’ x 24’ enclosed cargo trailer for sale. This trailer has been well maintained and lightly used over the years, serving primarily as a staging/command trailer.

We’ve owned it for nearly 20 years, and it has spent the majority of its life stored and only used occasionally. It remains in good condition with plenty of life left—ideal for contractors, event use, mobile command, or recreational conversion.

Features:
• 8’ x 24’ enclosed trailer
• Rear 4’ man door + side entry door
• Roof-mounted A/C unit (fully functional)
• Propane heater (will need some attention to get running)
• Wired for both 110V and 220V power
• RV-style hookups at the front
• Breaker box with 8 outlets
• 4 large interior lights
• Bench seating with built-in storage
• 6’ wide exterior aluminum side box with hinged command board setup
• Spare tire stored inside
• LED lighting (all operational)

Recent Maintenance:
• Tires, bearings, and suspension inspected/serviced last year

This trailer has been a reliable asset and is ready for its next use.

$4,000.00

Proceeds from the sale will go directly toward purchasing much-needed equipment for the Ferrisburgh Fire Department.

04/01/2026

****Important Department Update****

Effective immediately, all fire apparatus will be switching from water to maple syrup for fire suppression.

Recent studies show syrup sticks better to surfaces, smothers flames faster, and leaves behind a pleasant breakfast aroma for property owners.

Please be advised:
• Roads may be slightly stickier than usual
• Ants are now considered mutual aid
• Pancake breakfasts will be temporarily suspended due to “supply issues”

Thank you for your cooperation as we continue to improve our firefighting techniques.

03/31/2026

Tonight at approximately 3:42pm Ferrisburgh Fire Department provided mutual aid in Ferrisburgh on Burroughs Farm Rd. to assist Vergennes Fire on scene of a large vegetation fire spanning multiple acres.

Ferrisburgh responded with Engine 2, FAST, and Tanker. Upon arrival, crews were transported by UTVs into wooded areas and fields ahead of the fire to begin an aggressive initial attack. Using Indian packs (backpack water tanks with hand pump hoses) and hand tools, firefighters worked through challenging conditions including high winds, swampy terrain, and tall brush.

Additional agencies were called in for manpower as the operation progressed. The fire is now under control, crews will continue to monitor for hot spots and smoldering trees.

This was a highly coordinated effort among surrounding fire departments, rescue teams, and drone units to contain a fire of this scale.
Approximate size of 100 acres were effected.

Great work and thank you to all departments involved.

Agencies involved:
Shelburne Communication Center
Shelburne Fire
City of Vergennes Fire
Vergennes Area Rescue Squad
Charlotte Fire and Rescue
Monkton Fire
New Haven Fire
Bridport Fire
Bristol Fire
Middlebury Fire

Big thank you to McElwain Rentals for delivering a few ATVs for our member to get around the fire scene!