WEDNESDAY. AUGUST 31. 2022

Newport News Fire Chief Receives International Award

The safety of Newport News residents, businesses, and guests is a key priority. A dedicated team from the Newport News Fire Department (NNFD) serves our city and residents. Their work changed significantly during the pandemic, but their commitment never wavered. Their goal is to provide exceptional fire and life safety services, while advancing prevention, preparedness, and community engagement.

The International Association of Fire Chiefs recently hosted an annual conference and presented Newport News Fire Chief Jeff Johnson (center in photo) with the Alan Brunacini Fire Service Executive Safety Award. This prestigious award is presented annually to the chief executive officer of a fire department of any size or composition that has demonstrated a unique commitment to fire service health and safety.

Johnson has served as the Newport News Fire Chief since 2019 and has over 30 years of experience in emergency medical and fire services, as well as emergency management. He places a strong emphasis on collaboration and training, an outlook that has strengthened the NNFD. He also promotes community education in Newport News, ensuring the NNFD works closely with schools, residents, and businesses to provide valuable tips and resources that save lives. Chief Johnson was a critical part of the team that led the city’s response to the pandemic, helping establish vaccine and testing facilities in the city. He is active in several professional organizations and has authored several publications for industry organizations.

Free Active Shooter Training for Citizens

Christ United Methodist Church is partnering with the Newport News Police Department (NNPD) to provide free active shooter training for residents. The Civilian Response to Active Shooter Events (C.R.A.S.E) class is being offered on Saturday, Sept. 10, from 10 a.m. – noon at the church, which is located at 133 Deep Creek Road in Newport News.

Active shooter training is available to teach our community how to prepare, prevent and react during an active shooter event or mass attack in a variety of workplace and gathering environments, including schools, private businesses, and religious institutions.

NNPD provides this training to help the community survive when every second counts. By attending this free two-hour training, attendees will gain a better understanding of law enforcement and first responders, response scenarios, and learn skills that can save their lives and those around them.

C.R.A.S.E. is built on three principles: Avoid, Deny, Defend. Topics will include the history and prevalence of active shooter events, civilian response options, medial issues, considerations for conducting drills, learning how to control the body’s physiological responses to stressful situations, and more.

Breakfast and childcare will be provided by the United Methodist Women’s Ministry starting at 9:30 a.m. Pre-registration is required. Visit www.ChristLive.us for more information, on-line registration, or contact Christ United Methodist Church at 757-930-0945.