Vehicle Fire

On Wednesday, December 30, 2009, Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched to the intersection of Highway 173 North and Oklahoma Street for a report of a garbage truck on fire. The first Bonifay Firefighter arrived and reported a Waste Management truck with active fire between the cab of the truck and the body. Engine 1 and Attack 1 arrived and attacked the fire with a 1-3/4" hose line from Engine 1. The fire appeared to have been started by a ruptured oil line. None of the trash in the body was on fire. Bonifay Police Department controlled traffic during and after fire suppression.

Vehicle Accident

On Wednesday, December 23, 2009, Bonifay Fire Rescue responded to an MVC on I-10 near the 105 mile marker east bound. Also responding was Washington County EMS, Holmes County EMS, Holmes and Washington County Sheriff's Deputies, Caryville Fire Dept., and Florida Highway Patrol. One caller on scene reported one critical patient. Upon arrival, units on scene reported a full size Ford pick up had rear ended a disabled tractor trailer. There was extensive driver compartment intrusion on the pick-up truck with the driver entrapped. Bonifay Fire Rescue's Attack 1 arrived and began the extrication process using the Hurst spreaders to spread the door open and the Hurst cutters to cut the door lock mechanism. The patient, who had life-threatning injuries, was turned over to Holmes County EMS. Patient care was given until AirHeart 2 landed on I-10 at a landing zone that Caryville Fire Dept had set up. AirHeart landed and transported the patient to Bay Medical Center. Florida Highway Patrol os still investigating the crash.

Vehicle Accident

On Tuesday, December 22, 2009, Holmes County Communications Center received a call about a wreckless driver westbound on I-10 between Chipley and Bonifay. Officers and Deputies were given a BOLO (be on look out) over the radio for this motorist advising the vehicle could not maintain its lane. Just few minutes later, Bonifay Fire-Rescue, Holmes County EMS and Washington Co. EMS were dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on I-10 near the Holmes County line. Caller advised the vehicle had driven across the median, struck the concrete guardrail and flipped over the guardrail, rolled down the 35 ft. embankment, and landed at the creek bank. The driver had been ejected and partially entrapped under the truck. Upon emergency crews arrival, the patient was pulled out from under the truck and placed on a long spine board. AirHeart air ambulance was activated due to the mechanism of injury. Fire and EMS crews tied safety ropes to the guardrail and to the long spine board and hoisted the patient up from the 35 ft. embankment. AirHeart transported the patient to a hospital in Pensacola. Florida Highway Patrol is investigating the incident. Bonifay Fire Rescue was released from the accident scene and proceeded to the landing zone at Doctor's Memorial Hospital for an aircraft standby for AirHeart.

Structure Fire

On Sunday, Dec. 20, 2009, Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched to a structure fire on Sandpath Road in Bonifay. Engine 1, Pumper 1, and Tanker 1 were en route within minutes with 12 firefighters. Upon arrival, firefighters found a one story dwelling with flames breaching the roof. Firefighters made entry, located the fire in the attic, located a small dog in a cage, removed the dog, began extinguishing the flames. Some firefighters began removing family photos from the wall before they were damaged. Also some firefighters removed the Christmas gifts found hidden in a bedroom. Most of the ceiling had to pulled down to gain access to the fire. State Fire Marshal's Office is investigating the fire. No one was home when the fire started.

Structure Fire

On Tuesday, December 15, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Gritney Fire and Westville Fire was dispatched to a structure fire on Sellers Road in the Gritney community. While Bonifay Fire-Rescue's Tanker 1, Pumper 1, and Engine 1 were en route, Gritney Engine 13 arrived on scene, advised of a mobile home on fire, and began battling the blaze. Next engine arriving was Westville's Engine 11. Pumper 1, Tanker 1, and Engine 1 arrived. Pumper 1 laid a 1-3/4" to the front door of the structure. At this time, it had not been clear whether or not the home was occupied. Entry was made through the front door, the fire was knocked down, positive pressure ventilation was placed at the front door, and a primary search was conducted. No one was found inside the residence. A secondary search confirmed the same. Gritney and Westville Fire handled the overhaul and cause investigation once the State Fire Marshal arrived.

A Very Busy Day...

On Sunday, December 13, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue had a busy morning. The first call came in that morning for a car fire on I-10 at the 99 mile marker. Westville and Ponce De Leon Fire Departments were also notified and en route. Upon our arrival, Ponce De Leon and Westville Fire Departments had the passenger car engine compartment fire under control and soon the "fire out" announcement was giving. Bonifay Fire-Rescue's Engine 1 with 5 firefighters on board was cancelled near the scene and returned to the station.

Soon after, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on I-10 near the 106 mile marker east bound. Bonifay Fire 112 arrived on scene and advised all units there was no vehicle damage and no injuries. The van had hydroplaned and came to rest in the muddy median. Squad 1 and Attack 1 were both cancelled near the scene and returned to the station.

The third call of the day came in to Holmes County Communications Center as a 911 caller reporting her husband had been struck by lightning. Holmes County EMS Rescue 1 and Bonifay Fire Rescue's Squad 1 responded along with Chief McCormick. Chief McCormick arrived quickly and advised the patient was lying on the floor alert and oriented. The patient advised he was working on his laptop in a screened-in porch and as a result from a very close lightning strike, began experiencing electrocution symptoms. He was transported to Doctor's Memorial Hospital for further evaluation.

"Fill the Boot" Toy Fundraiser

On Saturday, Dec. 5, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue helds its annual "Fill the Boot" fundraiser at the intersection of Hwy 79 and 90 with the help of Bonifay Police Dept. The proceeds of this boot drive are going toward funding our annual "Toys for Tots" program. We would like to thank everyone who contributed this year.

BFD Training Updates

Captain Travis Cook and Firefighter Jason Durko have completed the Chipola Firefighter II program and passed their state boards!!!

Also Firefighters, Russell Smith and Greg Caruso passed their FFI state boards!

Traffic Accident

On Thursday, November 12, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Holmes County Sheriff's Office, Holmes County EMS, and Florida Highway Patrol responded to a report of a motorcycle crash on Steverson Rd. just off Highway 79 north. Upon arrival, emergency responders found a late model trike on its side in the ditch. There was one female with non-life threatening injuries. The patient was transported to a local hospital by Holmes County EMS. Bonifay Fire-Rescue Attack 1 remained on scene providing scene lighting for the investigating State Trooper. Florida Highway Patrol is still investigating the crash.

Medical Call

On Saturday, Oct. 31, 2009, Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched to a residence on Varner St. to first respond for Holmes County EMS. Dispatch information was a male subject not breathing. Time of dispatch was 7:52pm and the first firefighter and Bonifay Police officer arrived at 7:54pm & made a rapid patient assessment. He found the patient pulseless and no respirations. CPR was administered immediately. CPR continued until Holmes Co. EMS arrived. EMS treated the patient on scene and the patient had a pulse and some respirations prior to transport to the helicopter landing zone. Bonifay Fire Rescue proceeded from the scene to the landing zone at Holmes Co. Ag. Center to standby for AirHeart air ambulance.

Fire Alarm at Bonifay Elementry School

On Friday, Oct. 23, 2009, Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched to Bonifay Elementary School for smoke in a classroom. Upon our arrival, all students were evacuated. Principal Jones led us to the classroom that was filled with a light haze of smoke and strong electrical fire smell. After evaluating all the flourescent light ballasts in that room, investigation efforts were focused on the HVAC system. We were then led to the roof were the A/C units are housed. We located the unit that cools that particular room and found the problem. The fan blower motor had burned up sending the smoke through the duct work. The unit was powered off and maintenance began repairing the part. The classroom was then ventilated by a positive pressure fan.

2 Traffic Accidents & Fire Alarm

On Sunday, October 18, 2009 around 7pm, Bonifay Fire Rescue along with Holmes Co. EMS were dispatched to a two vehicle MVC at HWY 79 and I-10 east bound on-ramp reported by Bonifay Police Officer, J. Carver who was on scene. Officer Carver advised one patient would need to be extricated. Upon arrival found a Ford Ranger had T-boned a small passenger car. The driver of the Ranger was walking around upon arrival and there were two occupants in the small car. Bonifay Fire Rescue used HURST Jaws of Life tools to gain access to the small car. Both occupants from the small car were transported to DMH Emergency Room with non life-threatening injuries. Fire Chaplain Woody Bollinger was on scene at the hospital taking care of the needs of the two wreck victims.

Approximately 30 minutes later, Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched to Dogwood Inn Retirement Center for a possible structure fire. Upon arrival, Fire 112 advised a 360 degree evaluation of the building showed no signs of fire. All residents and staff were evacuated. Some residents were advising some smoke on the interior. Upon investigation, no fire was found. BFD did find a heater malfunction which filled 3 rooms with smoke. The heater connecting those rooms was powered off until maintenance could arrive. The rooms were ventilated of the smoke and the residents were allowed back inside.

While Bonifay Fire Rescue was working the Dogwood Inn call, dispatch advised of another T-bone type collision at HWY 79 and Brock Ave. Several firefighters responded to that scene which was about 100 yards from Dogwood Inn. They found a small sports car had T-boned a small SUV. One occupant in each vehicle. Both occupants were transported to DMH Emergency Room by Holmes Co. EMS with non life-threatening injuries. Bonifay Fire Rescue remained on scene assisting BPD with traffic until the wrecker service could arrive.

Bonifay Fire & Rescue's Annual Rodeo Pancake Breakfest

September 11th National Day of Service & Remembrance Parade

On Friday, September 11th, 2009 starting at 10:00 AM a Parade will start at the Bonifay Elementary School and travel down Waukesha Street and end at the Holmes County Agriculture Center on Highway 90. The parade will be followed by a luncheon for all emergency volunteers and professionals, provided by the local churches and the Holmes County Ministerial Association.

For complete details please CLICK HERE...

This link will open the article online at the Holmes County Times website.

Traffic Accident

On Tuesday, Sept. 8, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a Motor Vehicle Collision on Hwy 79 and Thomas Dr. First unit arrived on scene and advised of a one vehicle crash involving a guard rail, moderate damage to a Ford Expedition, but NO injuries. Attack 1 responded and provided floor dry for the transmission fluid leak. Holmes Co. EMS was also en route but was cancelled. Bonifay Police Dept. was investigating the crash.

Structure Fire

On Sunday, July 26, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched at 2:05am to a residence on Sweetgum Dr. for a report of a shed fire. Firefighter 112 arrived two minutes later and advised all units of an outdoor in the backyard approximately 12'X12'. The shed was fully involved but was not threatening any other structures. Engine 1 and Tanker 1 arrived on scene and deployed a 1-1/2" attack line with three firefighters wearing SCBA. The fire was extinguished quickly but the wooden shed was a total loss.

Vehicle Fire

On Tuesday, July 21, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a vehicle fire on Edison Street. Fire 103 arrived on scene and advised all units of a late 1980's model Ford Pick-up fully involved. Engine 1 arrived on scene within minutes with 5 firefighters. The pick-up truck was extinguished using a 1-1/2" attack line with a water and foam mixture. The pick-up truck was a total loss. Due to some suspicious circumstances, the State of Florida Fire Marshal's Office was contacted and an investigator was en route. Bonifay Police Department is investigating as well.

House Fire

Click here for more photos of this fire.

On Tuesday, July 14, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a fully involved structure on West Indiana Ave. While en route, Bonifay Police Officer arrived and obtained information from the property owner that while they were demolishing the abandoned block house, something ignited the contents inside. Instead of calling for the fire department at that time, the property owner decided to let the structure burn. Shortly after, concerned neighbors called 911 and reported the fire. Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded with Pumper 1, Engine 1 and Tanker 1. Firefighters cooled the surrounding areas and landscape until the fire burned itself out.

Traffic Accident

On Monday, July 13, 2009, Bonifay Fire & Rescue along with Holmes County EMS, Holmes County Sheriff's Department, and the Florida Highway Patrol responded to a single vehicle accident on Interstate 10 at the 109 mile marker. The vehicle had 4 occupants at the time of the crash and the Bonifay Fire & Rescue had to use the jaws of life to cut open the vehicle to remove occupants from the vehicle, one person was ejected from the vehicle and one person was deceased upon arrival of emergency personel. Airheart landed on the interstate to transport one of the patients, and Holmes County EMS transported one to Doctors Memorial Hospital. The 4th person in the vehicle did not have any injuries and was the only person in the vehicle wearing a seat belt.

House Fire

On Thursday, July 9, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched as mutual aid to Esto Fire Department for a structure fire on Will Lee Road at 9:06PM. Pumper 1 left the station at 9:09PM with two personnel. Two minutes later, Engine 1 was en route with seven personnel followed by Tanker 1 with two personnel. Attack 1 also responded with two personnel. Initial reports were dispatched as two people with burn injuries and two people missing. The first person to arrive on scene was an off duty Holmes Co. Sheriff's Deputy who responded from home. The deputy advised there were two people with burn injuries but all occupants were accounted for. Pumper 1 was the first fire apparatus on scene and found a single story brick dwelling, approximately 1200 square feet, fully involved with flames. Holmes County EMS was on scene treating the burn victims. Shortly after Pumper 1 attacked the fire with two 1-1/2" attack lines, Esto Fire Dept. arrived and began attacking the fire as well. The flames were extinguished from the interior of the home. Pittman Fire Dept also responded and assisted. Incident command was turned over to Chief 201 and Esto Fire Dept and Pittman Fire Dept handled the salvage and overhaul process.

Departments on scene:

• Bonifay Fire-Rescue
• Esto Fire Department
• Pittman Fire Department
• Chief 4 - HCFFA Chaplain
• Holmes Co. EMS
• Holmes Co. Sheriff's Office

Training Exercises

On Tuesday, July 7, 2009, Interim Chief Landis Messer organized a live scenario training session. A commerical structure fire was simulated at the Property Appraiser/Tax Collector building. The purpose of this training was to improve our interior attack speed and improving water flow speed from a hydrant to the engine. The training began as a "walk through" at the simulated fire location then all units returned to the fire station. At that time, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to that location in "real time". Engine #1, Pumper #1, and Attack #1 responded to the old bank building, located the simulated fire, deployed two attack lines to the back door, and supplied the engine with water from a hydrant located on Waukesha Street.

House Smoke

On Friday, July 3, 2009, Holmes Co. Communications Center received a 911 call from a residence on East Michigan Ave reporting an odor of smoke in their home. Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched at 7:09am to that location in for a possible structure fire. Pumper #1 arrived first on scene at 7:11am and reported no smoke visible from the initial perimeter check. Engine #1 and Tanker #1 arrived on scene shortly after for a total of seven firefighters on scene. Two firefighters made entry into the home and found heavy smoke in the attic. The electricity was turned off at the meter immediately. Two firefighters made entry into the attic and found an electrical junction box shorted out under a blanket of insulation. There was no evidence of any active flames. The attic was then ventilated of the smoke. The electricity was left turned off at the meter pending an electrician inspection and repair. All Bonifay Fire-Rescue units returned to the station at 7:48am. Also on scene, were two officers from Bonifay Police Department.

Traffic Accident

On Wednesday, July 1, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a single vehicle roll over type MVC on Highway 79 North and Williams Rd intersection. Within about one minute, Holmes Co. Sheriff's Office had a Sgt. on scene advising two males entrapped. FF/EMT 104 arrived shortly after advising the communications center of two trauma alerts. Two helicopters from AirHeart were launched immediately. BFD Squad 1 arrived and used the Jaws of Life to extricate the driver from the vehicle. Both patients were immobilized prior to HCEMS arrival. HCEMS arrived and treated both patients and prepared them for life flight. AirHeart 3 arrived and life flighted one patient to Sacred Heart in Pensacola with serious injuries. As soon as AirHeart 3 lifted and was airborne, AirHeart 2 landed at the same landing zone and life flighted the other patient to Tallahassee Memorial Hospital with serious injuries.

Bonifay's Patriotic Celebration

Click Here for All the Photos from this Event

On Sunday, June 28, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue participated in Bonifay's Patriotic Celebration at the Recreational Center. Engine #1 was on display at the Emergency Chaplain Corps display booth. Kids toured the engine inside and out, wore fire helmets, pretended to drive, and of course, rang the bell. Also, firefighters were on hand to assist Randy Spear in preparing, igniting, and cleaning up the fireworks. The two little patriotic girls in the fire truck are Laney, Firefighter Landis Messer's daughter and Kinsley, Capt. Firefighter Travis Cook's daughter.

Fire Alarm

On Monday, June 15, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a fire alarm at the Agricultural Building. Engine 1 responded along with the Bonifay Police. Upon arrival on scene no visible smoke or flames were seen and once a keyholder arrived a complete check was conducted inside the building and it was found to be a false alarm.

Traffic Accident

On Friday, June 12, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a report of an MVC roll-over on I-10 near mile marker 109 east bound. Initial reports were dispatched as possible entrapment and possibly multiple patients. Upon arrival, BFD found a Ford Expedition towing a large travel trailer both upside down on the south shoulder. Firefighters found the three occupants sitting on the ground with no injuries. All three occupants were wearing seat belts at the time of the crash. Firefighters also secured the two propane bottles from the trailer. Chief 4/Fire Chaplain also responded due to the initial reports being severe. Florida Highway Patrol released the Fire Dept from the scene.

Golfcart & Woods Fire

On Thursday, June 11,2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a golf cart fully involved in flames on east Highway 90 near Doc Fasion's. Upon arrival, Asst. Chief Cook advised all units only one apparatus would be necessary. Attack 1 arrived and quickly extinguished what was left of the golf cart and surrounding wooded area. No one was injured. Photos courtesy of Deputy Harrison who stopped to assist with traffic.

Traffic Accident

On Sunday, June 7, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched a motor vehicle crash on US Highway 90 east of Bonifay. Reports were describing a two vehicle accident with injuries. Upon arrival, fire personnel found a T-Bone type collision just west of Joe White Rd. Both vehicles had drivers only. Both drivers were alert and oriented and walking around. Bonifay Fire-Rescue had two EMT's on scene providing medical aid until Holmes Co. EMS arrived. One patient was taken to a local hospital with non-life threatening injuries. Bonifay Fire-Rescue cleared the highway of debris and glass while controlling traffic.

House Fire

Click Here for More Photos

On Monday, May 18, 2009, Holmes County Communications Center received a 911 call from a residence on East Iowa Ave advising their neighbor's house across the street was on fire. Dispatch alarmed Bonifay Fire-Rescue at 0429 hours. Bonifay Police and Holmes County Sheriff's Deputies were on scene relaying to dispatch of visible smoke and flames in the residence. Bonifay Fire-Rescue Engine #1 arrived on scene at 401 North Hubbard Street at 0435 hours finding the front living room fully involved. Two firefighters made entry into the front door with a 1-1/2 inch attack line and began extinguishing the flames. By then, Pumper #1 and Tanker #1 had arrived and two firefighters, equipped with Self Contained Breathing Apparatus, forcefully gained entry into the back door of the residence after learning no one had heard from the home owner. At nearly zero visibilty, the two firefighters crawled from room to room, beginning with the home owner's bedroom, making a primary search. No one was found in the residence. At that time, the fire had been contained to the front living room and the residence was being ventilated by a positive pressure fan. Firefighters gained entry to the attic space and located some insulation burned and smoldering and quickly extinguished that area. The State Fire Marshal's Office was notified to determine the cause. Upon conclusion of the Fire Marshal's investigation, he determined the origin was an electrical short in an extension cord ran under an area rug, under a couch, that powered an end table lamp.

Traffic Accident

On Friday, May 15, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to an MVC on I-10 at the 110 mile marker. Upon arrival, BFD found two separate wrecks within 200 yards of each other. The first report was a Dodge Ram vs pine tree. There were three patients from that wreck transported by HCEMS Rescue 1 and Rescue 2 to a local hospital. The other wreck was a vehicle in the ditch. Upon investigation the vehicle had blown a tire and lost control but did not come in contact with anything.

Traffic Accident

On Sunday, May 10, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to the intersection of Hwy 79 and Thomas Drive for a two vehicle accident with road blockage. The 911 caller advised there were serious injuries. Upon arrival, BFD found a Chevy Dually that had been broad-sided by a Chevy S-10. There were two patients that were transported to a local hospital both having facial injuries from contact with the windshield. Bonifay Fire-Rescue assisted HCEMS in the spinal immobilization process for patients. BFD remained on scene controlling traffic until both wrecker services cleared the roadway.

Traffic Accident

On Friday, May 8, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with BPD, HCEMS, HCSO, and FHP responded to a single vehicle roll over accident on Dykes Street in Bonifay. Fire 112 was in the area at the time of dispatch and arrived on scene within 2 minutes and reported one subject with injuries and no entrapment. The Ford Explorer was on its right side after losing control and striking a tree with the left front causing extensive damage and deployment of both front airbags. Holmes Co. EMS transported the patient to a local hospital with minor injuries.

Car Fire

On Tuesday, May 5, 2009, Holmes County Communications Center received a 911 call advising there was a car on fire at the BP station at Hwy 79 and Hwy 90. Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched at 1922 hours. Attack 1 with two personnel was en route at 1924 and called on scene at 1924 hours. Upon arrival firefighters found a 1983 Chevrolet Caprice with a small fire in the engine compartment. The car's owner had the hood open prior to their arrival. The car was away from the gas pumps. Firefighters notified dispatch that the fire was extinguished at 1926 hours. Upon investigation, the fire was ruled an electrical short due to exposed wires on the exhaust manifold.

2009-2010 Miss Holmes County Peanut Beauty Pagent

On Saturday, May 2, 2009, Britney English was crowned 2009-2010 Miss Holmes County Peanut at the Holmes County Agriculture Center.  Britney was also the top finisher in the categories of interview, written communication, verbal communication, and best dressed.  In her on stage interview Britney credited Bonifay Fire-Rescue's Firefighter/EMT Travis Cook with being one of the most influential persons in her life. She told the audience she is inspired by the way Travis risks his life volunteering for the City of Bonifay. She also gave Travis credit for influencing her to pursue a career in Fire Science with the goal of working as an investigator for the State Fire Marshal's Office. Britney is a cousin to the Cook family. We are very proud of Britney and wish her the best of luck as the reigning Miss Holmes County Peanut.

Bonifay Fire-Rescue

Welcomes two new firefighters to our organization.

          On Wednesday, April 29, 2009, Chief McCormick introduced both Russell Smith and Greg Caruso to the department at the monthly meeting.  Both applicants showed tremendous enthusiasm towards learning firefighting skills and helping the citizens of our community. Both Smith and Caruso are currently attending a Firefighter I class several nights per week in Cottondale, Fl and upon completion of the program will be able to sit for the state board exam to be certified State of Florida firefighters. Both Smith and Caruso will be a great asset to the department especially during the daytime hours. 

Traffic Accident

On Thursday, April 23, 2009, around 8:30pm Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Holmes Co. EMS responded to a single vehicle accident on highway 177A just south of Boswell Rd. Squad 1 was the first to arrive to find a Nissan pick-up with extensive damage to the entire truck. Squad 1's four man crew made contact with the two individuals that had occupied the truck. Both patients had visible injuries but were ambulatory and alert and oriented.  Attack 1 with 2 firefighters arrived on scene as well. BFD maintained C-spine immobilization and placed cervical collars on both patients. EMS arrived and both patients were placed on long spine boards and placed in the ambulance.

New Safety Equipment Installed

On Saturday, April 18, 2009, a group of Bonifay Fire-Rescue members placed blue reflectors on the highway to mark each fire hydrant.  The first highway completed was highway 79 from Thomas Dr. to highway 177 north of Bonifay. Then the group placed the reflectors the entire length of Oklahoma Street. The blue reflectors are an asset to firefighters when trying to locate the nearest fire hydrant to an incident at night. One hundred of these blue markers and the adhesive pads were donated to Bonifay Fire-Rescue by Guettler & Guettler, Inc. of Chipley, Florida. Also, each fire hydrant was turned on and flushed at the same time the markers were placed. Bonifay Fire-Rescue will be working to place blue markers near each hydrant in the city limits over the next several months. Thanks again to Guettler & Guettler, Inc. for their donation and Holmes County EMS for assisting with traffic control.

Vehicle Accident

Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with the Bonifay Police Department responded to a 2 vehicle accident on Waukesha Street at the intersection of Pecan Drive shortly before Midnight. As a vehicle was turning off of Waukesha St onto Pecan Dr. the vehicle behind it was slowing to a stop, but the young driver approaching from the south did not see the vehicles slowing to a stop until it was too late and struck the rear of a 2008 SUV causing extensive damage to the smaller car. The northbound lane of Hwy 79 was blocked with the damaged vehicle and Bonifay Fire & Rescue assisted with traffic control until the vehicle could be removed from the road.

Structure Fire Training

Bonifay Fire-Rescue held a structure fire training on S. Weeks St. in Bonifay. Please visit the Photo Gallery Page to see the 39 pictures from this controlled house fire.

Vehicle Fire

At approximately 4:34 am, The Bonifay Police Department along with the Bonifay Fire & Rescue responded to a vehicle fire on West Wisconsin Avenue Upon arrival on scene the vehicle a 2007 GMC pick up truck was fully evolved in flames. The Bonifay Fire & Rescue was able to attack the fire quickly and had the fire extingished within a matter of a few minutes. The State Fire Marshal was notified and an investifation is pending.

Watercraft Incident

On Friday, April 3, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a capsized boat on Smith Lake behind HCI with two people stranded in the lake. Attack 1 responded as well as Bonifay Fire-Rescue's Watercraft 1 rescue boat and several other firefighters. Holmes County EMS and Washington Co. Sheriff's Office were on scene along with FWC. Firefighters could see the stranded boaters clinging to their boat from a distance. Watercraft 1 was launched at the main boat ramp within 7 minutes of the initial call. Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Holmes Co. EMS made the boat ride to the floating boaters and rescued them from the water and towed their boat the landing. No one was injured.

Weather Related Incidents

On Thursday, April 2, 2009, The City of Bonifay was hit with a severe thunderstorm from the west. The storm front moved in around 3:30pm. Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to 15 seperate calls from 3 - 6pm ranging from controlling traffic at flooded roads, helping a local business place sandbags at their front door, assess possible tornado damage, to clearing roads blocked by fallen trees. Bonifay Fire-Rescue also responded to a few minor motor vehicle crashes that were weather related on I-10. Just before dark, Holmes Co. Board of County Commissioners announced that ALL county roads will CLOSED until April 3, 2009 when weather permits the road damage to be assessed.

Weather Related Road Closings

Holmes County has declared a State of Emergency due to the rising flood waters and several roads & bridges have been washed out, or caved in due to the heavy rains. Several Roads have been closed and are unsafe to travel on...

Click here to view the list of current road closures

List current as of 6:30PM March 30th, 2009

Weather Related Traffic Crash

On Saturday, March 28, 2009 around 9pm, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along Holmes Co. EMS, Esto Fire Dept., Holmes Co. Sheriff's Office, and FHP responded to a report of a vehicle crashed into a wash out on Highway 173 north of Highway 2. Upon arrival they found just that. The asphalt on highway 2 had collapsed during the day due to heavy rains and flooding. Both fire departments extricated the injured occupants out of the vehicle and out of the water. All three occupants were transported to Southeast Alabama Medical Center with two of the occupants having serious injuries. A great job was done by all on scene. Both fire departments and EMS worked very well together as a team.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to an MVC on I-10 involving a tractor trailer and an SUV. Squad 1 was the first Bonifay Fire unit on scene at the 101 mile marker and relayed to dispatch of one person entrapped in the SUV. Squad 1 began the extrication process. Attack 1 arrived and assisted as well. BFD firefighters gained entry into the SUV using the HURST Jaws of Life cutters and spreaders. The patient was then turned over to Holmes Co. EMS for transport to a local hospital. This accident was related to the severe weather that came through Holmes County this morning.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a two vehicle MVC at the intersection of highway 79 and Bylsma Road. BFD responded along with Holmes Co. EMS, Holmes Co. Sheriff's Office and FHP. Upon arrival, found a Ford Ranger rear-ended by a Chevy S-10 Blazer. One patient was transported by EMS to Doctor's Memorial Hospital.

3 Traffic Crashes

Bonifay Fire-Rescue stayed busy by responding to 4 reports of motor vehicle crashes and 1 woods fire.

One of the MVC's had no injuries in front of Simbo's Restaurant on Hwy 79 after a Waste Management truck made minor contact with a passenger car causing the car to end up in the ditch.

The other 3 MVC's, Bonifay Fire-Rescue's services were not needed and the department was cancelled while enroute.

Woods Fire

Shortly after 4pm, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Gritney and New Hope Fire responded to a woods fire near Newberry Ln.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire -Rescue responded to a motor vehicle accident on Edison St. behind the Bonifay IGA store. Upon arrival found that the driver had lost control of his SUV, nearly flipping , and once the vehicle stopped it was stuck in the ditch. When bystanders made an attempt to check on the driver, the young white male exited the SUV and ran into a nearby mobile home park. BFD arrived and assisted Bonifay Police in searching for the injured runner. At the time BFD was released by Police Dept personnel, the driver had not been located.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a motor vehicle accident on Waukesha St. at the entrance to the Tom Thumb next to Burger King. First unit arrived to find a Dodge Caravan with one restrained driver on the edge of large ditch on the verge of turning over. There were six to eight bystanders holding the van from turning over. BFD units maintained C-spine immobilization until Holmes Co. EMS arrived . Once Attack 1 arrived, the bumper winch was used to secure the van from flipping and relieved all the bystanders from the positions. Once the vehicle was secure , BFD and EMS extricated the patient from the van and onto a long spine board. The patient was transported to Doctor's Memorial Hospital with minor injuries. BFD wants to thank all the bystanders that assisted in holding the van from over turning.

Medical Call

Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a medical call per the request of the Holmes Co. EMS Westville unit. The call was on South Waukesha in Bonifay with a possible stroke as the nature of call. Several units from Bonifay Fire-Rescue arrived within minutes to find an elderly patient with signs and symptoms of a stroke. The detection of these symptoms prompted the activation of AirHeart Medical Helicopter service for rapid transport. HCEMS arrived and treated and transported the patient to the landing zone. Fire-Rescue setup a landing zone at Doctor's Memorial Hospital. Another great example of the advantages Bonifay Fire-Rescue has having firefighters who are certified in both Emergency Medical and Fire Services.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with the Bonifay Police Department and Holmes County EMS responded to a vehicle crash on Waukesha Street in front of Advance Auto. Upon arrival on scene a white Dodge Neon was found in the middle of the southbound lane turned over on its roof. The driver of the vehicle was able to get out of the vehicle and sustained minor injuries due to the deployment of the vehicle's airbag. She was wearing her seatbelt at the time of the crash. The driver of the vehicle ran off the road and struck the embankment causing the vehicle to travel airborne striking the telephone pole, breaking it in two before landing back on the road overturned.

Traffic Crash

On Sunday February 22nd, 2009 at approximately 12:39 AM, Bonifay Fire & Rescue along with the The Bonifay Police Department, and Holmes County EMS responded to a report of a vehicle roll-over accident just off North Avenue on Caryville Road in the City Limits. The vehicle was found upside down after impact with a large tree in the curve along the corner fence of the City Cemetery. The driver was traveling at a high rate of speed and lost control of the vehicle entering the curve and ran off the road and struck the tree causing extensive damage to the vehicle and causing the vehicle to over roll over onto its roof. The driver of the accident fled the scene before law enforcement and rescue units arrived on scene and is currently under investigation by the Bonifay Police Department. Several open containers of alcoholic beverages were found in the vehicle.

Brush Fire

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded with Attack 1 and Tanker 1 to assist Gritney Fire Dept. with a large woods/brush fire off of Caney Branch Road. Upon arrival they found a large control burn out of control and the fire had jumped a dirt road and spread to some woods. Division of Forestry was notified and Bonifay, Gritney, Westville, Pittman, and Caryville Fire Departments made a perimeter around the fire to protect nearby structures. Once the Division of Forestry plowed a fire line around the wooded area all fire units were released from the scene.

Jeff Wilson Fire 121

Bonifay Fire & Rescue welcomes 2 new members to the department...

Landis Messer Fire 112

Welcome to the team...

 Friday, February 13th, 2009

Traffic Crash

Fri. Feb. 13, near Midnight, BFD was dispatched to a motor vehicle crash on HWY 173 north of HWY 2. While enroute, Esto Fire Dept. advised dispatched of the situation and Bonifay Fire-Rescue was cancelled since no extrication was needed.

Saturday, February 14th, 2009

House Fire

Sat. Feb. 14, BFD resonded to a possible structure fire on Boswell Road. Firefighters found a strong smoke odor inside the residence. After a long investigation, firefighters found the wall studs adjacent to the chimney were overheated and on the verge of burning. The studs were cooled and there was minimal damage to the home.

Sunday, February 15th, 2009

Fire Alarm

Sun. Feb. 15, BFD responded to the former Doctor's Memorial Hospital on Byrd Ave for a report of an activated fire alarm. Upon arrival no smoke was visible from the outside perimeter. Firefighters waited for the key holder to investigate and clear the inside of the building. This incident was considered an alarm malfunction.

House Fire

Sun. Feb. 15, BFD responded to a report of a structure fire on Gracey Pond Ln about 11am. Pumper 1, Attack 1, and Tanker 1 responded. Upon arrival, firefighters found a 30 ft. goose neck travel trailer fully involved in flames and a total loss. The fire was extinguished without any damage to the nearby house.

Traffic Crash

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a motor vehicle crash reported on Henry Grey Rd. Upon arrival, Holmes Co. EMS Rescue 1 was on scene with a Ford Explorer in the woods on its roof. There were two occupants that were walking around. Both male patients were injured. Bonifay Fire-Rescue personnel assisted EMS with the spinal immobilization process. Both patients were transported by EMS to a local hospital. BFD was released by FHP.

Training Vehicle Fire

Bonifay Fire-Rescue had their bi-monthly in-house training exercise. BFD personnel set up a wrecked car from a local junk yard near the intersection of Moody St. and Banfill Ave. The car appeared to have crashed into a tree and caught fire. All fire personnel were in a meeting at the Bonifay Fire Station. Dispatch alerted the department of the mock incident and dispatched it in real time. BFD responded to the incident location with Engine 1, Squad 1, and Attack 1. The scenario described that there could be someone entrapped in the burning vehicle. Upon arrival, the car was fully involved in flames. Engine 1 was utilized with a single attack line to extinguish the fire. Once the fire was extinguished, all personnel reported back to the station to discuss the incident. Bonifay Fire-Rescue will be holding these real time type scenario training exercises monthly throughout the rest of the year. The Bonifay Police, Holmes County Sheriff's Office, and the Florida Highway Patrol was greatly appreciated for their assistance in the training.

Traffic Crash

On Wednesday, Feb. 11, 2009, Bonifay Fire-Rescue along with Holmes Co. EMS, and Holmes Co. Sheriff's Dept responded to a report of a motor vehicle crash on highway 173 S just south of I-10. Holmes Co. Communication Center advised it was a single vehicle roll-over with one occupant still entrapped. Arriving emergency personnel found a 1998 Ford Explorer in the ditch on its right side with one occupant out of the vehicle lying on the ground and one occupant still inside the vehicle. Bonifay Fire-Rescue began the extrication process by stabilizing the vehicle utilizing the bumper winch on Attack 1 and cribbing. Firefighters then made several strategic cuts on the vehicle's side posts to detach the roof. Then EMS providers were able to extricate the patient from the vehicle on a spine board. One patient was transported to Doctor's Memorial Hospital in Bonifay and the other was transported to Flower's Hospital in Dothan.

Vehicle Fire

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to I-10 at mile marker 97 for a vehicle fire. Engine 1 was enroute from Bonifay at 1551 hours. Upon arrival at 1603 hours found Westville and Ponce De Leon Fire Departments on scene with a fully involved full-size pick-up truck pulling a trailer. Bonifay Fire-Rescue attacked the vehicle fire with a 1 - 1/2 inch jumpline and extinguished the fire using a water/foam mixture. The truck was a total loss but none of the equipment on the trailer was burned. The scene was turned over to Westville Fire Dept. and Florida Highway Patrol at 1621 hours.

Fire Alarm

Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to Bonifay Nursing and Rehab Center in reference to a report of a fire in the laundry room . Nine firefighters responded with Engine 1, Pumper 1, & Attack 1 along with Holmes Co. EMS and Bonifay Police Dept. Upon arrival the fire alarm was activated and they were led to the laundry room by staff members. A strong electrical smoke odor was coming from the washing machine area with no signs of flames. Upon further investigation, firefighters determined a washing machine motor had an electrical short. The laundry area was then ventilated with a positive pressure fan to clear the smoke. Bonifay Fire-Rescue turned over the scene to the nursing home maintenance crew.

Grass Fire

The Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded to a grass fire in the City of Bonifay on Cotton Street just north of Kansas Aveune. A Bonifay Police Officer was patroling the area and observed a grass fire in the ditch along the roadway and noticed it was spreading and there was not anyone watching over it at the residence. The Bonifay Police Officer notified the Holmes County Communications Center and the Bonifay Fire-Rescue sent firemen to put out the fire. The resident had been burning leaves in the corner of their property along the ditch and thought they had put the fire out and returned back inside their home and they did not realize the fire had restarted and spread all across the ditch.

Traffic Crash

The Bonifay Fire-Rescue responded with Holmes Co. EMS and Holmes Co. Sheriff's Dept. to a report of a motor vehicle accident on highway 79 just north of Wayside Park. Initial reports to Holmes Co. Communication Center were that there were two occupants with one of the occupants being ejected from the vehicle. Bonifay Fire-Rescue was the first to arrive on scene to find a Chevy Blazer on its roof in the highway. Also located both patients, one was conscious, one was not. Firefighters maintained C-spine immobilization until Holmes Co. EMS arrived. Engine 1 was dispatched to the Bonifay Elementary School helicopter landing zone for an aircraft standby. Airheart transported one patient to Bay Medical Center as a trauma alert and the other patient was transported to Doctor's Memorial Hospital as stable. Holmes Co Sheriff's Deputies remained on scene for traffic control and scene safety.

Vehicle Fire

On Friday, January 16, 2009, Holmes County Communications Center recieved a 911 call in reference to a Tri-County Gas propane delivery truck on fire. The incident occured in a yard just west of the intersection of Highway 90 and Banfill Ave. Bonifay Fire-Rescue, Holmes Co. EMS, and Holmes Co. Sheriff's Dept. were dispatched at 9:56am. Bonifay Fire-Rescue Engine 1 and Attack 1 were both enroute at 9:58am. When they arrived at 10:01am there were no visible flames reported. It appeared that there was a propane leak near the engine of the truck and with an unknown source of ignition, the propane ignited in a quick, flash-type explosion near the rear of the cab. The driver was outside of the truck at the time but was not injured, although his coat had been burned. Bonifay Fire-Rescue used foam and water to cool the engine and the rest of the truck. Bonifay Fire-Rescue remained on scene as a precautionary measure while the truck was being attached to a wrecker.

Fire Alarm

Bonifay Fire-Rescue and Bonifay Police officers responded to a residence on Scenic Circle near the Health Dept. in reference to a residential fire alarm activation. When the residents arrived home they found an active smoke alarm and immediately called 911. Bonifay Fire-Rescue arrived with Engine 1 and 7 firefighters, shut off the propane valve, & made entry into the apartment. Firefighters did not find any smoke. The call was listed as a malfunctioning smoke detector . The residents were instructed to leave the propane valve off until apartment maintenance could inspect the utilities.

House Fire

At 3:51 am, the Holmes Co. Communications Center received a 911 call of a residential fire on highway 177 just north of Hoffman Road. Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched and Engine 1 was enroute at 3:55 am. Engine 1 arrived on scene at 4:01 am to find the home owner outside advising the brick, one-story home was full of smoke. Also smoke was coming from the eave of the house on the south end. Firefighters made a quick entry to find an active fire near the ceiling and the chimney. The fire was extinguished with water and foam and the home was ventilated with a positive pressure fan. Approximately 45 minutes later, all BFD units were back in service and returned to quarters.

Vehicle Fire

Bonifay Fire-Rescue ended 2008 with a vehicle fire on New Year's Eve. The vehicle was fully involved upon their arrival which was located on Bonifay-Gritney Road near Boswell Crossroads. The vehicle was in motion at the time it caught fire but no one was injured.

Traffic Crash

On Dec. 6, 2008 at 1:20 pm, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a motor vehicle accident with injuries at the intersection of US HWY 90 and Banfill Ave just West of Bonifay. First unit arrived just two minutes after being dispatched. Upon the arrival of the first BFD unit, dispatch was notified there was entrapment. The extrication process began immediately at the driver's side of a severly deformed pick-up truck. The driver was extricated within the next 5-6 minutes and turned over to HCEMS to soon be airlifted to a local hospital with serious injuries. Unfortunately, the passenger did not survive the crash. The wreck scene was secured until turned over to Florida Highway Patrol. Photos of this accident are being withheld for the respect of the families involved.

House Fire

On Dec. 6, 2008, at approx. 12:10pm, Bonifay Fire-Rescue was dispatched to a residential fire on Cricket Ln in Bonifay near Sandpath Rd. Bonifay Fire-Rescue arrived on scene three minutes after the time of call. First unit in found a mobile home with visible smoke at the front entrance. Two BFD firefighters and one Caryville firefighter made entry into the home to find a small fire behind the washer and dryer. The fire was extinguished with a very minimal amount of water and damage. The home was then immediately ventilated with a positive pressure fan to rid the home of smoke. After further investigation, found the dryer electrical outlet had shorted out and caught a mop on fire behind the dryer. A quick call to 911 by the occupants of the home was key to the save of their home.

Traffic Crash

On Thursday, Nov. 27, 2008, a 80's model Chevy truck collided with a Ford F550 on Hwy 2 just west of Hwy 79 near Esto. Bonifay Fire Rescue was dispatched for entrapment. Upon Bonifay Fire Rescue arrival, Esto Fire Dept. had began the extrication process of the Chevy truck's driver. BFD assisted in extricating the driver out of the badly deformed truck and onto a spine board. Fire Rescue attention then turned to extricating 4 horses out of the overturned horse trailer being pulled by the Ford F550. Fire 102 took command on the extrication process of the injured horses. All horses were led to safety after Bonifay Fire Rescue and Esto Fire made enough room at the rear exit of the trailer. Both occupants of the Chevy truck were air lifted to area hospitals with serious injuries. The driver of the Ford F550 was not injured.