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5 Reasons Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department Is The New Standard For Rural Firefighting Excellence In 2025

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The Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department (EVFD) is currently setting a new benchmark for rural emergency services, marking late 2025 as a period of unprecedented operational milestones. As of today, December 24, 2025, the department is celebrating a series of major achievements, including the acquisition of critical new equipment and the attainment of a superior national rating that directly benefits the community. These successes underscore the unwavering commitment of the department's volunteers and leadership to serving the Embreeville area of Washington County, Tennessee, and the surrounding regions, including parts of northwestern Unicoi County.

The recent surge in operational capability—highlighted by a record-breaking ISO rating—is not just an internal victory; it translates directly into tangible savings and increased safety for local residents. The EVFD’s strategic location at 4061 Highway 81 S in Erwin positions them as a critical first responder for a wide geographic area, tackling everything from structure fires to complex wildland blazes.

The Leadership and Dedication of EVFD’s Command Staff

The success of any volunteer organization is built on the dedication of its leadership, and the Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department is no exception. The current command structure is composed of long-serving volunteers who dedicate their time without compensation to ensure the safety and preparedness of the entire service area.

The department serves a crucial role in Washington County, Tennessee, and its operations are guided by a dedicated board and key officers.

EVFD Key Personnel and Biographical Snapshot

  • Fire Chief / President / Director: Earl Greene. Chief Greene is the primary operational and administrative leader of the department, holding the titles of Fire Chief and President. His leadership has been instrumental in achieving the department’s highest-ever ISO rating.
  • Chairman of the Board: Stormy Davis. Davis serves as the Chairman and a Board member, providing strategic oversight for the department's mission and operations.
  • Secretary / Treasurer: Kristie Ford. Ford manages the critical financial and administrative records for the non-profit organization.
  • Secretary / Board Member: Aj Garland. Garland is one of the key administrative officers supporting the department's day-to-day functions.
  • Secretary: William Hensley. Hensley also serves in a secretarial capacity, contributing to the efficient organization of the volunteer force.

These individuals, along with the entire volunteer crew, are the backbone of the EVFD, ensuring that the Embreeville area of Washington County has reliable, professional fire protection.

A New Era of Excellence: ISO Rating and Equipment Upgrades

The Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department has recently ushered in a new era of operational excellence, highlighted by two major, interconnected achievements that will shape its service for years to come.

1. Achieving the Highest-Ever ISO Rating

In a significant milestone, the EVFD has earned its highest-ever Insurance Services Office (ISO) Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating of 4. The ISO rating is a critical measure used by insurance companies to assess a community's fire-suppression capabilities. A better rating, like the new Class 4, typically translates directly into lower fire insurance premiums for homeowners and businesses within the service district. This achievement is a testament to the department's improved training, water supply, and communication systems, and represents a massive financial benefit to the residents of Washington and Unicoi Counties served by the EVFD.

2. Securing a Mini-Pumper Fast Attack Unit

Further bolstering its operational readiness, the Washington County officials approved a significant allocation of federal funds for the department. The funding includes $214,000 for a mini-pumper fast attack unit for the Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department. This specialized vehicle is crucial for rapid response, particularly in areas with difficult terrain or limited access, such as the mountainous regions around Buffalo Mountain. The acquisition of the fast attack unit is a key component of the county’s fire program expansion, demonstrating a commitment to upgrading emergency services across the region.

Beyond the Blaze: Community Service and Recent Operations

The EVFD’s work extends far beyond structural firefighting. Their volunteers are integral to emergency response across a spectrum of incidents, often working in collaboration with neighboring departments and regional agencies.

Wildland and Structure Fire Response

The department has been publicly recognized for its critical role in containing wildland fires, demonstrating proficiency in fire suppression under challenging conditions. In a notable incident, the EVFD, alongside the Johnson City Fire Department (JCFD) and the Tennessee Division of Forestry, worked quickly to contain a four-acre wildfire on Buffalo Mountain. The quick action of the Embreeville crews was essential in preventing the blaze from spreading.

The department also maintains a strong mutual aid relationship with other local services. They recently responded to a structure fire on Highway 107 in Washington County, working in coordination with the Nolichuckey Valley Volunteer Fire Department to control the incident. This inter-departmental cooperation is vital for effective emergency management in the region.

A Pillar of Community Support

The EVFD serves as a vital resource during major community crises and natural disasters. During the recovery efforts following Hurricane Helene, the Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department was designated and utilized as a warming shelter for residents in need. This role showcases the department’s commitment to community welfare, positioning the station not just as a fire hall, but as a central hub for safety and relief during emergencies.

Supporting the Mission: Fundraising and Future Outlook

As a volunteer organization, the EVFD relies heavily on community support and fundraising to maintain its high level of service and acquire necessary equipment beyond government grants.

Upcoming Fundraising Events

The community consistently rallies behind the department. A major event on the horizon is the "Blazing Good Time: Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department Fundraiser Festival," scheduled for June 28, 2025. Such festivals are crucial for generating the funds needed for operational costs, equipment maintenance, and volunteer training.

Furthermore, the department often supports local families in crisis, such as pitching in with fundraisers for a family who lost their home in a house fire, demonstrating a deep connection to the Lamar School and the wider community.

Future Joint Facilities and Expansion

Looking ahead, the Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department is part of a significant regional planning effort. There are active discussions and proposals for a joint firefighting/medical response facility to be established in Lamar. This proposed facility would see the EVFD working side-by-side with the Washington County/Johnson City Emergency Medical Services (WC/JC EMS). A combined facility would drastically improve response times and coordination for both fire and medical emergencies, further enhancing the safety net for the local populace. The planning for this joint endeavor signifies a progressive approach to regional emergency service integration.

The dedication of Fire Chief Earl Greene, Chairman Stormy Davis, and every volunteer is evident in the department’s recent achievements. From securing a top-tier ISO rating that lowers insurance costs to acquiring a new fast attack unit, the EVFD is proactive in its mission. Their continuous involvement in community events, disaster relief, and mutual aid operations solidifies their role as an indispensable pillar of the Embreeville, Washington County, and Unicoi County communities.

5 Reasons Embreeville Volunteer Fire Department is the New Standard for Rural Firefighting Excellence in 2025
embreeville volunteer fire department
embreeville volunteer fire department

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