Third District Volunteer Fire Department

08/18/2026

07/22/2026

🌀 JEFFERSON PARISH WEATHER UPDATE

Jefferson Parish remains under a Tropical Storm Warning as Tropical Storm Bertha continues moving west across the northern Gulf.

Here’s the latest:
💨 Maximum sustained winds remain near 60 mph.
🌀 The storm’s center remains very exposed as it continues moving west.
🌧️ Periods of rain and gusty winds remain possible across our area today.

The biggest concern today may actually be the heat.

🌡️ An Extreme Heat Warning is in effect from 10:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., with heat index values expected to reach 108° to 115°, and isolated locations could briefly experience values as high as 118°.

Please continue to monitor the weather throughout the day, limit outdoor activities during the hottest hours if possible, and check on family members, neighbors, and pets during the extreme heat.

We’ll continue to share updates as conditions change.

07/20/2026

Tropical Depression Update for 7/22/26

The parish has announced the following information as of this morning:

-Jefferson Parish remains under Tropical Storm Warning
-Maximum sustained winds reaching 60mph
-Still moving West, center still very exposed
-Biggest weather threat remains the heat; Extreme Heat Warning in effect starting at 10 am to 6 pm (indices 108 to 115 DEG, 118 a possibility)

07/19/2026

Seventy-five years ago, a group of dedicated men and women came together to fill a need in their community. They built this department on commitment, courage, and a willingness to answer the call, no matter the hour or the circumstance. Because of their vision and sacrifice, we are here today.

We are thankful for every person who has ever worn a Third District uniform. Whether you served for a few years or a lifetime, whether you responded to one emergency or thousands, you have helped shape this department into what it is today. We are grateful to those who came before us, those who continue to serve, and we remember with deep respect those who are no longer with us.

I also want to recognize the families of our members. The fire service is truly a family commitment.

To our neighboring departments, thank you for being more than colleagues—you are our partners and our friends. We appreciate your assistance, friendship, professionalism, and commitment to the fire service.

I would also like to extend our sincere thanks to the members of the Jefferson Parish Council. Your support of public safety and your partnership with the fire service help ensure that we have the resources and encouragement to continue serving our residents with pride and excellence.

Thank you all for being here to celebrate this remarkable achievement. Here's to 75 years of service—and to many more years of protecting and serving our community.

Matthew Bondi
President
Third District Volunteer Fire Department

07/17/2026

It is with profound sadness and heavy hearts that the St. John Firefighters Association Local 4784 announces the passing of our brother, Firefighter/Operator Ovide “Oppie” Chenier.

Oppie began his fire service career as a volunteer with the LaPlace Volunteer Fire Department before joining the career department, where he faithfully served his community for many years. He had a true passion for the fire service and took great pride in mentoring and instructing new recruits as they began their own careers. His dedication to the profession extended beyond the fireground, previously serving as Secretary and Treasurer of our Association and always working to support his fellow firefighters.

To know Oppie was to know someone with an incredibly generous heart. He was a devoted father, an exceptional firefighter, a gifted instructor, and a loyal friend. He was the kind of person who would give you the shirt off his back without hesitation if it meant helping someone else. His compassion, humility, and unwavering commitment to others left a lasting impact on everyone fortunate enough to know him.

The loss of Oppie leaves a tremendous void in our department, our Association, and throughout the fire service family. While his passing came far too soon, his legacy will live on through the countless firefighters he mentored, the lives he touched, and the example he set each and every day.

To Oppie’s family, we extend our deepest condolences and prayers. Please know that you are surrounded by an entire brotherhood and sisterhood who mourn alongside you and who will forever honor his memory.

Rest easy, Brother. Your watch is over. We have it from here.