Alachua County Fire Rescue

06/02/2026

06/01/2026

Yesterday units from Alachua County Fire Rescue responded to a reported motor vehicle crash with entrapment near MM 390 on SB I75.
Upon arrival, crews found two vehicles with moderate to heavy damage off the roadway. One vehicle was overturned, while the other was resting on its side. Crews quickly determined that one vehicle had been towing the other at the time of the crash.
During a rapid size-up, firefighters located a critically injured patient entrapped inside the vehicle resting on its side. Rescue personnel immediately stabilized the vehicle and performed a roof-flap extrication using hydraulic rescue tools. The patient was successfully extricated and transported to the hospital in less than 10 minutes from the time crews arrived on scene. 🚒

05/29/2026

🎉✨This morning, we gathered at Station 80 for a heartfelt final farewell to Chief Theus, celebrating an incredible 32 years of dedicated service with Alachua County Fire Rescue. The day began with a delicious breakfast, setting the tone for a wonderful time of fellowship among current employees and many retirees who came to honor him.

A special thank you to Local 3852 for sponsoring this memorable event, allowing us to come together and share stories and laughter. Chief Theus has truly made a lasting impact on our community and everyone at ACFR. His leadership and commitment will be dearly missed. ❤️

Let’s continue to carry forward the legacy he has built in our hearts and our service. 🚒🚑🚨

05/28/2026

As Chief Theus’s retirement day approaches, the ACFR family is coming together to show their appreciation for his dedicated service. The billing department went above and beyond by creating a heartfelt tribute to honor his leadership and commitment.

✨ **Thank you, Chief Theus! Your legacy will continue to inspire us!** ✨

05/27/2026

𝐀𝐥𝐚𝐜𝐡𝐮𝐚 𝐂𝐨𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐲 𝐋𝐢𝐟𝐭𝐬 𝐁𝐮𝐫𝐧 𝐁𝐚𝐧

Effective today, May 27, 2026, Alachua County has lifted the countywide burn ban following substantial rainfall across the region over the past several days and additional rain forecasted throughout the week.

County officials, in coordination with the Florida Forest Service (FFS), determined that improving environmental conditions have significantly reduced the immediate threat of wildfires.

The Keetch-Byram Drought Index (KBDI), which measures soil and vegetation dryness, has dropped to 415 from 618 last week and is expected to continue declining as rainfall persists.

“Recent rainfall has significantly improved conditions across Alachua County and reduced the wildfire risk that led to the burn ban,” said Fire Chief Harold Theus. “While the ban is being lifted, we encourage residents to continue practicing safe and responsible outdoor burning to help prevent accidental fires.”

Residents are reminded to follow all local and state regulations regarding outdoor burning. Officials caution that dry conditions can return quickly, especially during warm, windy periods.

Alachua County Fire Rescue and the Florida Forest Service will continue monitoring drought conditions, weather patterns, and wildfire activity. If conditions worsen, the county may reinstate the burn ban to protect public safety and property.

Residents are encouraged to stay informed through official Alachua County communication channels for updates regarding burn conditions and potential restrictions.

05/23/2026

🌮 Huge thanks to our amazing ACFR admin and HQ staff for treating us to a delicious catered lunch from El Indio Mexican Restaurant as EMS week comes to an end! 🎉 Your efforts are truly appreciated.

A special shoutout to everyone who donated blood this week! Your generosity helps improve the lives of our citizens and makes a real difference in our community. 💉❤️

05/22/2026

🌟 **Thank You, UF Health!** 🌟

A huge thank you to UF Health for providing a delicious lunch to our crews today as we continue to celebrate EMS Week! Your generosity is truly appreciated.

The food was fantastic, but the highlight for everyone was definitely the Saulsberry Banana pudding—absolutely amazing! 🍌🍰

05/21/2026

🌟 **Thank You, HCA!** 🌟

A shoutout to HCA for their incredible generosity in hosting lunch for our crews on both Monday and Wednesday! Your support made our celebration of EMS Week even more special.

Your commitment to our community and the well-being of our first responders does not go unnoticed. 👏

05/20/2026

🚒 **Crews fight fire for hours!** 🚒

Early this morning, multiple crews from ACFR and GFR worked tirelessly for several hours to combat a significant fire at the Leveda trash transfer station. 🔥

Thanks to their quick response and collaboration, the teams were able to manage and control the blaze 🚨🚒

05/20/2026

🎉 **Congratulations to James Riddling!** 🎉

Today, ACFR is thrilled to announce that our very own James Riddling has been awarded the prestigious **Nightingale Award**! 🌟 James passion for providing outstanding care has made a profound impact on our community, and we couldn’t be prouder to have him on our team.