McWhorter Volunteer Fire Department

05/11/2026

We have received multiple messages from local firemen inquiring about tonight’s training… McWhorter Fire Department is hosting a drivers training (cone course) this evening at Johnson Elementary school. This class is being taught by SFRT district 13.

05/06/2026

Yesterday McWhorter Vol Fire Department members spent their evening training in extrication skills led by area 13 state fire rescue training. We would like to express our sincere appreciation to the SFRT area 13 office and also Hensley’s towing and Wildcat towing of London for the donation of two vehicles. Nothing compares to the skills learned and sharpened by hands on training.

02/15/2026

IMPORTANT BURNING RESTRICTIONS!!

Hazard Seasons (Statewide)
🚨Spring: February 15 – April 30🚨
⚠️Fall: October 1 – December 15

🚫 Burning Restrictions During These Periods:
• It is unlawful to set fire to — or cause to be set on fire — any flammable material capable of spreading fire located in or within 150 feet of woodland or brushland between the hours of 6:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. local time.

• Burning is only permitted between 6:00 p.m. and 6:00 a.m., or when the ground is covered with snow.

These restrictions are in place to protect lives, property, and Kentucky’s forests during peak wildfire risk seasons.

Please plan outdoor burning activities accordingly and always use extreme caution.

For additional information, contact your local Division of Forestry district office.

01/26/2026

The McWhorter Fire Department has dedicated significant resources throughout the day to clear major and most side roads within the fire district of fallen trees. As the temperature dropped below freezing at approximately 6 pm, a layer of ice has formed on all roadways across the county, resulting in multiple accidents and a complete shutdown of most of Hwy 472. Residents are urged to remain at home unless absolutely necessary. Our thoughts and prayers are with everyone in the fire district for warmth and safety, and we appreciate your cooperation.

10/25/2025

Bring all the little ghosts and goblins by for trick or treat Halloween night.

08/14/2025

McWhorter Rd. will be shut down and closed at times this evening due to a tractor trailer wreck. This will be from HWY 586 to Hanna Leigh Trail. Use cation in the area. 

08/11/2025

McWhorter Rd will be shut down in both directions until approximately 6:30 to 7 pm this evening. Shutdown will be from Hwy 586 to Hanna Leigh Trail.

05/18/2025

If you need resources here is a list of places that can help.

05/17/2025

Let me not pray to be sheltered from dangers but to be fearless facing them.
Les was the epitome of this statement and his absence will forever be felt by all who knew him.
Go Rest High Sir.

It is with profound sadness that we share the loss of Major Leslie Roger Leatherman of the Laurel County Fire Department. He was fatally injured during his response to the devastating tornado in Laurel County overnight.

Major Leatherman was a dedicated public servant for 39 years, answering the call to protect and help others in their most critical time of need. His courage, commitment, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Please keep Major Leatherman’s family, friends, and fellow responders in your thoughts and prayers. As we continue search and recovery efforts in the affected areas, we ask that everyone stays clear to allow our teams to do their work safely and effectively.

This is a heartbreaking reminder of the dangers our first responders face every day and the incredible bravery they show in the face of disaster.

Rest in peace, Major Leatherman. Your service and sacrifice will always be remembered.

12/27/2024

Our prayers go out to the family as well as our local brothers and sisters grieving their loss.

**Thoughts and Prayers **
This morning our former colleague, Deputy Wes Brown, lost his courageous battle with cancer.
Our Prayers go out to his family, the Sheriff's office staff, and his many friends.
Our unsung heroes have a special place in God's kingdom.
Rest well, Wes, we've got it from here.
You will be missed!🙏🙏