For Emergencies, Please Dial 911, All Other Calls 276-235-9580 mayers@galaxva.com

On August 13th the Galax Fire Department was toned out for a standby call to cover Hillsville Station 1 at approximately 5:00am. Hillsville and 16 other surrounding departments were working a large fire at the Meadows of Dan Elementary School in Patrick County, VA. Engine 2 responded with a full crew. While in route, the call was upgraded to a request for Galax Fire Tower 11. Engine 2 diverted directly to the scene while Tower 11 made the 45 minute trip to the school. Upon arrival, Engine 2’s crew met with Patrick County Command, completed a 360 walk around of the fully involved facility, and formulated a plan. Engine 2 positioned to draft from two drop tanks and ‘feed’ the Tower. Tower 11 positioned on the right front corner of the school. Stuart’s telesquirt positioned on the left front corner of the school. Both units, pumping thousands of gallons of water, were able to knock down the bulk of the remaining fire so ground units could enter the badly damaged school and retrieve critical records. Galax assisted with overhaul operations and cleared the scene after operating for three hours.