Wise Fire Department

05/05/2026

02/21/2026

Yesterday morning at approximately 07:00 hours, Wise Fire & Rescue was toned out for a reported commercial structure fire at Reno’s. Upon arrival, crews were met with heavy fire conditions showing from the roof and interior of the structure. Due to the volume of fire and rapid extension, a 2nd Alarm was requested early into the incident.

Crews initially began an offensive interior attack, working aggressively to knock down the fire and protect the structure. However, as operations continued, rooftop HVAC units compromised the roof system, leading to a ceiling collapse inside the building. For the safety of our firefighters, command made the decision to transition from an offensive strategy to a defensive exterior attack. Firefighter safety will always remain our top priority.

We would like to extend a special thank you to Norton Fire Department for responding with Truck 32 and Squad 33, providing critical aerial and manpower support during defensive operations.

Additional thanks to:
• Norton Rescue
• Norton Fire
• Wise Police Department
• Wise County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO)
• Virginia State Police (VSP)
• All utility workers who assisted on scene

This was a long and labor-intensive incident, with all units clearing the scene at approximately 16:30 hours.

We are proud of the coordinated teamwork and professionalism displayed by every agency involved. Incidents of this magnitude truly demonstrate the strength of mutual aid partnerships in our region.

📸 Skipper NFD/NRS

02/12/2026

Last night at approximately 18:30, Wise Fire & Rescue Station 9 was toned out for a residential structure fire.

Chief 9 arrived on scene to find a two-story, Type V structure with flames and heavy smoke showing. Command was immediately established, and a second alarm was requested, bringing in Norton Fire Department for mutual aid.

Engine 983 arrived shortly afterward and deployed two handlines to the A and C sides of the structure. Through coordinated efforts and strong teamwork, crews were able to gain control of the fire.

At approximately 19:50, command advised the fire was tapped out, and overhaul operations began. At 22:50, command was terminated, and all units were placed back in service.

“No Injuries were reported”

A huge thank you to Norton Fire Department and the Wise County Sheriff’s Office for their assistance!

📸 LT. Grigsby

01/23/2026

❄️ Winter Weather Safety Reminder ❄️
As colder temperatures move into our area with the possibility of snow and ice, Wise Fire & Rescue wants to remind everyone to take extra precautions to keep your family safe.

Propane & Fuel-Burning Heaters
Portable propane heaters, kerosene heaters, and other fuel-burning devices should never be used inside your home, garage, or enclosed spaces unless they are specifically designed and approved for indoor use. These heaters can produce deadly carbon monoxide, an odorless and invisible gas that can quickly become fatal.

Safety Tips
• Use only approved indoor heating devices
• Keep heaters at least 3 feet away from anything combustible
• Never run heaters while sleeping
• Make sure you have working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors
• Have a fire extinguisher readily available
• Never use grills or outdoor heaters indoors

Travel Safety
With snow and ice possible, slow down, increase following distance, and only travel if necessary.

Your safety is our priority. A little preparation goes a long way in preventing emergencies. Stay warm, stay alert, and stay safe.

— Wise Fire & Rescue

12/25/2025

From all of us at Wise Fire & Rescue, we extend our warmest wishes to everyone for a safe, peaceful, and blessed Christmas.

11/11/2025

Today, we pause to honor the brave men and women who have served our great nation — those who stood ready to defend our freedoms and protect the values we hold dear.

11/07/2025

Tonight at approximately 17:30, Wise Fire & Rescue Station 9 was dispatched for a possible commercial structure fire at UVA–Wise Henson Hall.

Chief 9 arrived on scene and reported a three-story apartment complex with nothing showing from the exterior. Command was established, and a full 360° size-up of the structure was conducted. Light smoke was observed on Division 3, prompting a second alarm for Norton Fire Department.

Engine 983 arrived and located a smoking dryer on Division 3. NFD Squad 33 and Chief 35 arrived shortly thereafter, with NFD Tower 32 staging nearby. Crews worked efficiently to ventilate the building.

Command notified dispatch that the incident was under control and requested any additional resources to stand down. After ventilation was completed, command was terminated, and all units were marked back in service at 18:20.

Thank you to:
• Norton Fire Department
• UVA–Wise Police Department
• Wise County Sheriff’s Office

10/20/2025

Tonight at approximately 20:26 Station 9 was dispatched to a single-vehicle crash on US 23 Northbound near Mile Marker 52.

Chief 9 arrived on scene, completed a quick size-up, and established command. Engine 979 assisted with traffic control and debris removal to ensure the roadway was cleared safely.

“No injuries were reported”

Command was terminated at 20:57 and all units were marked back in service.

10/13/2025

Yesterday, our crews had the opportunity to operate the Kids Corner Fire, Obstacle Course to sharing the general knowledge of what we do in the fire service. Our goal is to inspire younger individuals to take an interest in firefighting and hopefully build a future passion for serving their community.

In addition to these efforts, Engine Company 979 has remained busy responding to Emergency Medical Service & other calls across our coverage area.
We appreciate everyone who stopped by to visit, support, and learn more about what we do.

📸 Pictured below: Engine 979 washing down the streets of downtown Wise following the 2025 Fall Fling event.

10/02/2025

This morning at approximately 07:08, we were originally dispatched as 2nd due for a tractor trailer fire on US 23 in Pound’s jurisdiction. Upon arrival of Chief 9, it was determined the correct location was at Mile Marker 51, which falls within our 1st due area.

Chief 9 established command, performed a size-up, and requested the appropriate resources. Engine 979 arrived on scene and stretched a hoseline to begin fire attack. Pound Fire Department assisted by shuttling water as needed.

At approximately 07:40, the fire was declared under control. A heavy blanket of foam was applied for final suppression and overhaul.

Note: No injuries were reported.

Command was terminated, and all units were back in service by 09:25.

A huge thank you to:
• Wise Rescue Squad
• Pound Fire Department
• Wise County Sheriff’s Office (WCSO)
• Virginia State Police (VSP)

07/18/2025

Yesterday afternoon, the new “to us” Engine 979 was officially placed into service at Station 9!

Just after midnight, at approximately 00:36, Station 9 was toned out for a report of a fallen tree across the roadway with power lines involved. Engine 979 responded and arrived on scene to find a large amount of debris blocking the road. Thankfully, AEP was already on scene beginning debris removal.

The Engine Lieutenant assumed command and quickly began issuing assignments. Crews worked efficiently, and by 01:20 the roadway was cleared and reopened. Engine 979 cleared the scene and returned to quarters.

This marks the first of many calls for Engine 979, and we’re proud to see it already out serving our community.

Note: We do apologize — decals for the doors have not yet arrived.