The Henrico Way, Every Day: Henrico firefighters aid local response to Shenandoah Valley wildfires

Fourteen Henrico County firefighters deployed to Page County to support local volunteer crews in battling wildfires that burned nearly 13,000 acres in the Shenandoah Valley. Dry and windy conditions fueled nearly 100 separate fires that comprised the Waterfall and 211 fires, which burned from March 20-27 in Page and Rockingham counties.
The Division of Fire's willingness to help other communities in their time of need is a reflection of the agency's commitment to public service. The Board of Supervisors commended the firefighters at its March 26 meeting for embodying The Henrico Way - the county's focus on outstanding service.
Lt. D.J. Jennings, who is assigned to Azalea Firehouse 1, was among the crews who worked about 36 hours straight between their normal shifts, travel to the Valley and work to prevent the destruction of homes and other property. He called the experience one of the most rewarding of his career.
"Our mindset is if we can make a difference and help somebody, we're going to make a difference and help that person," he said. "We do it because it's in our blood."
For more information on Henrico Fire, visit henrico.us/fire/.