In serving the residents of Valhalla, it can certainly be said, 2011 was very busy year for the VFD.  In addition to over 464 alarms with 15,781 donated man hours by the dedicated men of the VFD, the VF District has successfully accomplished many administrative and operational goals.  These goals and initiatives are always designed to insure superior fire protection and the health and safety of our firefighters.  The District has upgraded firefighting gear, equipment, technology and facilities. We welcomed new members to the Department, improved safety and training and reduced spending.  For an extensive list of these accomplishments, click on link above.

Valhalla was dispatched out to the Sprain Brook Parkway Northbound for a car fire. Upon arrival units found the front engine compartment well involved with fire. Crews from Engine 82 knocked the fire down quickly while crews from Rescue 9 and Utility 59 forced the hood.

This month marks the 35th anniversary of the Holy Name of Jesus School fire. On January 3rd, 1977 Valhalla was dispatched for a working fire at the school. The fire started in the gymnasium of school and spread rapidly. Fire spread was aided by the newly lacquered floors. Valhalla was assisted by Thornwood, Hawthorne, Fairview and North White Plains Fire Departments. You can see more photos in our image gallery under the fires section.

These are three photos of Ladder 49 operating at a drill at the Kensico Dam Plaza. (Unknown year)

Valhalla was dispatched to 17 Heritage Dr. in Pleasantville on a fully involved working house fire. While en route to the fire units could see the smoke column from the fire from the Valhalla Methodist Church on Columbus Ave. Upon arrival of Rescue 9 crews were put to work to assist with putting exterior attack hose lines in service. Heavy Fire was through out the house, which had a big head start on crews. The house fire also started a medium size brush fire in the back of the house as well. Other mutual aid units on scene were Thornwood, Chappaqua, Millwood, Armonk, Pleasantville VAC, County Car 1,and Batallion 11. Fire crews worked well into the night and were assisted by a construction company that demolished the rest of the structure.

The Valhalla FAST has been busy this past week. The FAST was dispatched on Thursday December 29th to 37 Old Lyme Rd in West Harrison for a working house fire. Crews from West Harrison and Purchase Fire Departments made a quick knock down of the fire. The FAST crew stood by as they operated. The next call came on New Years Eve in Thornwood. Valhalla FAST was dispatched to 52 Booth St on a working house fire. Thornwood quickly knocked down this fire as well. Other units on scene included Pleasantville and Briarcliff Fire Departments. The third call for service was January 4th to 9 North High St in Elmsford for a working house fire. Valhalla FAST was put to work to assist with overhaul and knocking down hot spots. Elmsford Fire stopped the basement fire from spreading to the rest of the house. Departments on scene included Hawthorne, Fairview, and Hartsdale.

The Board of Fire Commissioners of the Valhalla Fire District unanimously approved the 2012 District budget on November 15, 2011. This year’s budget represents a modest increase of 1.97% or $13,669.32. The Commissioners worked hard to keep the tax increase below the new State imposed 2% tax cap for local governments.

Chairman Deegan indicated that the 2012 budget stays within the tax cap. The District will continue to maintain the safety of residents and our firefighters and will continue to monitor the budget during the year making adjustments as necessary.  It is anticipated that taxpayers may experience a decrease in their fire tax as a result of a large increase in the assessment in the Fire District.

County Control dispatched Valhalla Fire and Valhalla VAC to the intersection of Route 9A and Dana Rd. for a motor vehicle accident with injuries and possible extrication with vehicle fire. While en route County Control updated fire units that there were three reports of a vehicle fire with a person trapped, the Hawthorne Fire Department was then requested to respond for assistance. Upon arrival units found a two car accident where a fire was extinguished prior to arrival. There were two injured parties but were not trapped in their vehicles. Units assisted with patient packaging and general accident clean up. Units on scene were 2482, 2191, Rescue 9, Engine 82, Engine 155, Valhalla VAC, County Car 1 and Mount Pleasant Police.

The Board of Fire Commissioners conducted their annual District election last night for one open seat for a five year term.  On the ballot was the incumbent Ken Hoffarth who garnered 139 and a write-in who received 36 votes-Dan Oderifero

With the holidays fast approaching and the increased usage of seasonal decorations, it is important to focus on candle fire safety and prevention. Because the majority of candle fires result from human error and negligence, candle fires and their associated casualties are preventable.

• Avoid using lighted candles. Consider using battery-operated flameless candles.
• If you must use candles, ensure that they are placed in sturdy holders.
• Keep candles at least 12 inches from anything that can burn.
• Keep candles away from children and pets.
• Never leave burning candles unattended!

By following a few candle fire safety tips, everyone can enjoy a safe and happy holiday season.

A Message from the United States Fire Administration.