Portsmouth Fire Rescue & Emergency Services

05/18/2026

This week, we proudly celebrate EMS Week and honor the dedicated professionals of our department who serve our community with skill, compassion, and unwavering commitment. From answering calls in our community’s most critical moments to providing lifesaving care when seconds count, you represent the very best of public service.

Every response, every patient, every challenge — you show up with heart, courage, and professionalism. Thank you for being the calm in the chaos and the strength our community depends on.

To our EMTs, paramedics, supervisors, firefighters, support staff, and every team member who keeps our system moving: we appreciate you, we honor you, and we celebrate you this week and every week.

Happy EMS Week! 💛🚑

04/30/2026

Portsmouth Fire recently completed a back-to-basics firefighter survival skills training designed to reinforce core competencies and build confidence in high-risk, low-frequency events.

Firefighters trained on rescuing a downed member who had fallen through and become trapped in a floor. Crews practiced locating the firefighter, stabilizing the compromised area, and packaging and removing the member using coordinated techniques that prioritized both victim and rescuer safety.

Rescue operations for a firefighter trapped in a below-grade environment were also conducted. Training focused on laddering techniques, controlled access and egress, and coordinated removal while maintaining air management and constant communication.

Finally, firefighters practiced self-rescue techniques during low-air and out-of-air emergencies. This included controlled problem-solving under stress, air conservation methods, and buddy breathing procedures.

Overall, the training strengthened fundamental survival skills and reinforced the expectation that every firefighter is prepared to act decisively to save themselves and their fellow

04/23/2026

🚒 Firefighter Trainee Applicants – Important Testing Information

🚒The Portsmouth Fire Department has scheduled the Firefighter Applicant Physical Ability Test sessions for May 8–10, 2026. Participation in one of these sessions is required to continue in the hiring process. This is a pass/fail assessment.

📌 Practice Sessions (Choose One):

📍 Safety Town Training Center – 4404 Deep Creek Blvd., Portsmouth, VA

• May 8, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• May 9, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• May 10, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

📌 Official Physical Ability Test Dates:

📍 Safety Town Training Center – 4404 Deep Creek Blvd., Portsmouth, VA

• May 15, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• May 16, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM
• May 17, 2026 — 8:00 AM–4:00 PM

A sign‑up sheet will be available at each practice session.

If you cannot attend a practice session, contact Ms. Daphney Jenkins at 757‑393‑8765 or [email protected] by May 1, 2026 at 4:00 PM to schedule your preferred test date and time. Slots are first‑come, first‑served.

⚠️ Applicants who do not attend a test session will not move forward in the hiring process.

For questions about the testing sessions:
• Battalion Chief Michael Dugan – [email protected]
• Deputy Fire Chief Julian Williamson – [email protected]

For all other hiring‑process inquiries:
• Ms. Daphney Jenkins – 757‑393‑8765 | [email protected]

04/13/2026

🌟 National Public Safety Telecommunicators Week 2026 🌟

This week, we proudly honor the incredible men and women of the Portsmouth Emergency Communications Center (E911) — the calm voices in the chaos and the first, first responders our community relies on every day.

Our telecommunicators work tirelessly behind the scenes, answering calls for help with professionalism, compassion, and unwavering dedication. Whether coordinating emergency responses, supporting first responders, or guiding callers through critical moments, their impact is immeasurable.

To our E911 team: thank you for your commitment to keeping Portsmouth safe. Your service matters, your work saves lives, and your community appreciates you more than words can express. 💛💙

04/09/2026

The Cradock fire station has been around since 1918. Originally located at Afton Square, the station has operated through two World Wars, but city officials say the current building no longer meets the needs of the fire department.

03/27/2026

🔥 NOW HIRING: Portsmouth Firefighter Trainees! 🔥
Portsmouth Fire Rescue and Emergency Services is officially accepting applications for Firefighter Trainee positions! If you’ve been waiting for the opportunity to serve your community, build a meaningful career, and join a team committed to excellence, now is the time.
🌟 Application Window: Open now through May 1, 2026

📌 Apply Here: https://www.governmentjobs.com/careers/portsmouthva/jobs/5287504/firefighter-trainee

Whether you're starting a new career path or looking to take your service mindset to the next level, Portsmouth Fire Rescue and Emergency Services is ready to welcome dedicated, motivated trainees ready to make a difference.

Share this post and help us spread the word—your next firefighter may be in your network! 🚒🔥

GENETAL STATEMENT OF JOBUnder general supervision, this position protects the lives and the property of the citizens from fire, medical emergencies, and hazardous material incidents in the field of suppression and prevention. Reports to a Fire Lieutenant or Fire Captain.ESSENTIAL JOB FUNCTIONS Resp...

03/27/2026

Portsmouth Fire, Rescue and Emergency Services would like to congratulate Captain Charisse Grandison-Orton on her retirement from the City of Portsmouth.

Captain Charisse Grandison-Orton began her career with the City of Portsmouth in March of 2002 and served proudly for 24 years. During her tenure, she has served in Operations, Fire Training, Fire Marshal's Office; and most recently was leader of the Community Risk Reduction division.

On behalf of your fellow Firefighters, Paramedics, Dispatchers, and Citizens of Portsmouth; Thank you for your 24 years of service to the community.

Best of luck in your future, and please enjoy your well-deserved retirement!

Captain Charisse Grandison-Orton's official Retirement date is April 1, 2026.

03/25/2026

Portsmouth Fire recently completed an in-service training focused on VEIS (Vent, Enter, Isolate, Search) and primary search operations, reinforcing critical skills that directly impact firefighter and civilian safety. This hands-on training emphasized coordinated decision-making, speed, and discipline in high-risk environments, allowing crews to sharpen their ability to quickly locate and remove victims while maintaining crew integrity.

By training on VEIS and search techniques, members improved their understanding of flow paths, victim survivability, and the importance of isolating fire conditions to create tenable spaces. Repetition of these skills builds muscle memory, increases confidence, and reduces on-scene hesitation.

This continued investment in training makes our firefighters more efficient and effective on the fireground—leading to faster searches, better communication, and ultimately, improved outcomes for the community we serve.

03/02/2026

On February 25th, 26th and 27th, Portsmouth Fire completed an intensive training series focused on first-arriving single-family structure fire incident command simulations. All three shifts participated ensuring consistency in expectations, communication, and leadership across the organization.

These fire simulations emphasized the critical role of clear, concise radio communication and the use of common terminology on the fireground. From the initial size-up to assigning resources and establishing strategic objectives, crews practiced delivering complete, accurate reports that paint the picture for everyone responding. A strong, detailed size-up and 360 report sets the tone for the entire incident. It directly impacts firefighter safety, prioritizes life safety and operational success.

Another element focused on the proper assumption and transfer of command, particularly the role of the arriving Battalion Chief. These officers and acting officers practiced confirming assignments and locations of all working companies. Making a clear formal command announcements, confirming current strategies and maintaining accountability. These are all essential components of managing a dynamic and high-risk environment.

Training like this strengthens Portsmouth's ability to operate as one cohesive team—no matter which shift responds. Continuous improvement, disciplined communication, and confident leadership ensure we are prepared to protect our community when it matters most.O

02/06/2026