Friendship Volunteer Fire Department, Inc.

10/24/2026

Another perfect night to get your scare one! Come on out for a scary good time!

Come let us make you p*e and cry, oh I mean scare you!
Only 2 more Saturdays left!

10/22/2026

At approximately 10:29 on October 22, 2026 the Friendship Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. was dispatched for the report of smoke filling a house in the 3800 Block South on Olean Road. Upon arrival, the smoke had dissipated and the cause was a blower motor that failed on a residential furnace. No injuries and no damage reported. Also dispatched for mutual aid was Versailles Fire Rescue. This is a great opportunity to remind us all to do some checking on our heating systems before the cold sets in. Here are 10 points for you to consider:

10 Fall Heating Safety Reminders

As you fire up your furnace or wood-burning stove this fall, take a few minutes to help keep your family safe!

1. Schedule a furnace inspection. Have a qualified professional service your heating system before cold weather arrives.
2. Check your chimney. Have your chimney and stovepipe professionally inspected and cleaned to remove creosote and obstructions.
3. Give heating equipment room. Keep furniture, curtains, boxes, firewood, and other combustible materials at least 3 feet away. Follow any greater clearances required by the manufacturer.
4. Check the furnace filter. Clean or replace it according to the manufacturer’s instructions, and keep air registers and returns clear.
5. Inspect outside vents. Make sure furnace exhaust and air-intake openings are free of leaves, nests, and other debris.
6. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms. Make sure everyone can hear them, and replace batteries or expired alarms as needed.
7. Burn the right fuel. Use dry, seasoned firewood in wood stoves. Never burn trash, treated lumber, or use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a fire.
8. Keep children and pets back. Establish a 3-foot safety zone around your wood stove, and remember that surfaces remain hot after the fire dies down.
9. Handle ashes carefully. Place ashes in a metal container with a tight-fitting lid. Store it outside, at least 10 feet from buildings, away from anything that can burn—never in a cardboard box or plastic trash can.
10. Take warning signs seriously. If a carbon monoxide alarm sounds, get everyone outside immediately, call 911, and stay out until emergency responders say it is safe to return.

10/20/2026

It’s always the little things that hit the hardest…..

Hood RaT These shoes belonged to fallen Durham Firefighter Andrew Brokes. They remain in the very place where he last stood before stepping onto Tower 5 and heading out to what would become his final call.

There is something profoundly heartbreaking about knowing that an ordinary moment would be the last time a firefighter stood in that spot before answering the call to serve. He went to work prepared to answer the call of duty, never knowing how that call would change so many lives forever.

This morning, we continue to lift the entire Durham Fire Department, the Alamance Public Safety family, and the Brokes family in our thoughts and prayers. We pray for strength in the moments when words fall short, comfort in the midst of unimaginable grief, and peace for all those carrying the weight of this loss.

Some calls are never forgotten. Some sacrifices leave an everlasting mark. And some heroes leave behind a legacy that will never fade.

Rest in honor, Firefighter Brokes. Your service will never be forgotten.

10/13/2026

October 13, 2026, at approximately 07:41 the Friendship Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. was dispatched to a two-vehicle accident in the area of State Road 129 and County Road 800 South.
One occupant was treated at the scene and transported for additional care. The occupant of the second vehicle reported no injuries and declined treatment.
Also assisting on scene, Indiana State Police, Ripley Co EMS and Affordable Todd Wrecker & Repair LLC.
The accident remains under investigation. Be safe out there!

10/13/2026

Thanks for coming out yesterday evening!

10/13/2026

On October 12, 2026, the Friendship Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. spent the evening training with PHI Air Medical Madison on landing zone and patient loading operations for medical air evacuation. The team, based in Madison, flew to Friendship and shared their operations, how the fire department and EMS integrate into evacuation of a seriously injured patient. Our cadets got a close up look at the helicopter and the "old guys" got a good refresher. Thanks again PHI Air Medical Madison for the visit and training! Be safe out there!

10/08/2026

The boil water advisory for Aberdeen Pate has been lifted.

10/03/2026

Well it’s finally here! Weather is going to be perfect. Start off the scare season and make this your first stop! See you there……if you dare!

10/01/2026

A quick heads-up. Aberdeen Pate Water has issued a boil advisory for a portion of their service area.

09/26/2026

On September 24, 2026, the Friendship Volunteer Fire Department, Inc. had the pleasure to host the IVFA (Indiana Volunteer Firefighters Association) District meeting. The meeting is held quarterly and rotates amongst the member departments. During the meeting we paused to recognize ten year and 25 year members. Our ten year members are Stephen Sieverding, Brett Linville, Mike Harris (unable to attend were Brian Thomas, Ethan Back and Steven Williams). The 25 year members are Steve Williams and Brian Vogel. Congratulations gentleman and thank you for supporting your community!