# The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team > The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team (legal name: The DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association, Inc., also known as DVFA) is a volunteer association in DeBary, Volusia County, Florida, founded on June 23, 1953 as the area’s first volunteer fire department. Today it supports the firefighters and other emergency responders who protect DeBary (fire service is provided by the Orange City Fire Department under contract with the City of DeBary) through fire-safety education, fundraising for equipment, and on-scene firefighter rehabilitation with its support vehicle “Support 33”. It is a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization (contributions are not tax-deductible as charitable contributions). It never fundraises door-to-door. Key facts: - Website: https://debaryvfa.org/ - Mailing address: PO Box 530853, DeBary, FL 32753-0853 - Association Hall (first DeBary firehouse, dedicated 1955): 10 Colomba Road, DeBary, FL 32713 - Email: firesupport@debaryvfa.org · Phone (non-emergency): 386-801-2469 - Meetings: 2nd Wednesday of each month, 6:30 pm · Drill night: Wednesdays 7 pm - Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DeBaryVolunteerFiremensAssociation - More than 1,500 volunteers have served since 1953; members give about 2,000 volunteer hours per year. - Emergencies: always call 911. The association is not an emergency service. ## Pages - [Basket](https://debaryvfa.org/basket/) - [Home](https://debaryvfa.org/): The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team (DVFA) has supported DeBary, Florida firefighters since 1953 with fire-safety education, fundraising and on-scene rehab. - [Shop](https://debaryvfa.org/shop/) - [About Us](https://debaryvfa.org/about-us/): Who we are: the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association, DeBary's first fire department (1953), now supporting Orange City firefighters who protect DeBary, FL. - [What We Offer](https://debaryvfa.org/services/): What the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team offers: on-scene firefighter rehab, fire-safety presentations, Association Hall use, event support and Challenge Coins. - [Fire Safety and Prevention](https://debaryvfa.org/safety/): Fire-safety and prevention resources for DeBary families: Fire Prevention Week, smoke alarms, escape plans, kitchen, battery, hurricane and brush-fire safety. - [Home Fire-Safety Checklist](https://debaryvfa.org/fire-safety-checklist/): Check your home's fire safety in 5 minutes: interactive checklist for alarms, escape plans, kitchen, batteries and hurricane season, plus a smoke-alarm age calculator. - [Safety Blog](https://debaryvfa.org/blog/): Fire-safety guides, emergency preparedness tips and association news for DeBary and West Volusia families from the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team. - [The “NEW” Support 33](https://debaryvfa.org/the-new-support-33/): How a donated Clay County ambulance became the NEW Support 33, the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team's rehab vehicle for firefighters and first responders. - [What does a Support Unit do?](https://debaryvfa.org/what-does-a-support-unit-do/): Support 33 brings water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, shade, generators and clothing for displaced residents to emergency scenes in DeBary, Florida. - [Association History](https://debaryvfa.org/history/): From a 1952 neighborhood meeting to DeBary's first firehouse, Station 33, Support 33 and Station 39: the history of the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association. - [Meet our Board and members](https://debaryvfa.org/members/): Meet the board and long-serving members of the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team, including Donald Neyer, honored for 50 years of volunteer service in DeBary. - [Upcoming Events](https://debaryvfa.org/upcoming-events/): Pancake breakfasts, open houses, meetings and community events of the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team. See what's next and add it to your calendar. - [Calendar](https://debaryvfa.org/calendar/): Interactive calendar of DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team meetings, drill nights, fundraisers and Association Hall use at 10 Colomba Road, DeBary, Florida. - [Photo Gallery](https://debaryvfa.org/gallery/): Photos of the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team at fire scenes, parades, open houses and the Station 33 dedication, plus historical apparatus photos. - [Support the Association](https://debaryvfa.org/support/): Support DeBary's firefighters: donate online, by PayPal, Venmo or check, buy a Challenge Coin, join a fundraiser or volunteer with the Fire Support Team. - [Challenge Coins](https://debaryvfa.org/coins/): Order the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association 70th anniversary Challenge Coin: 2-inch coin in a capsule, $20. Proceeds equip DeBary Fire Station 39. - [Fundraisers](https://debaryvfa.org/fundraisers/): DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team fundraisers: our famous Pancake Breakfasts, the annual mailer campaign and Challenge Coins. Why we fundraise and how to give. - [Volunteer](https://debaryvfa.org/volunteer/): Volunteer in DeBary, FL: become an Association Member, Support Member on the Support 33 rehab team, or Volunteer/Reserve Firefighter. How to apply. - [Contact Us](https://debaryvfa.org/contact/): Contact the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team: 386-801-2469 (non-emergency), firesupport@debaryvfa.org, PO Box 530853, DeBary FL. Meetings 2nd Wednesday. - [Links](https://debaryvfa.org/links/): Useful links for DeBary residents: City of DeBary, Orange City Fire & Police, Volusia County Fire Rescue, Sheriff, EMS, Florida agencies and national safety sites. - [Facility Usage](https://debaryvfa.org/facility-usage/): Need a meeting place in DeBary? The DVFA Association Hall at 10 Colomba Road is available one-time or recurring, by donation, with TV, projector and whiteboard. - [Frequently Asked Questions](https://debaryvfa.org/faq/): Answers about the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team: donations and tax status, Challenge Coins, volunteering, the Association Hall, events and fire safety. - [Sitemap](https://debaryvfa.org/sitemap/): All pages, safety articles and store items on the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team website, plus links to the XML sitemap and llms.txt for AI assistants. - [Image Credits](https://debaryvfa.org/image-credits/): Credits and licenses for photographs used on the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team website, including public-domain and Creative Commons images. ## Fire-safety & community articles - [Safe Charging Is a Superpower: Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety for Fire Prevention Week 2026](https://debaryvfa.org/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/): Fire Prevention Week 2026 is about safe charging. How DeBary residents can buy, charge, store and recycle lithium-ion batteries and e-bikes without fire risk. - [Kitchen Fire Safety: How to Prevent and Handle Cooking Fires at Home](https://debaryvfa.org/kitchen-cooking-fire-safety/): Cooking is the top cause of home fires. Learn how DeBary families can prevent kitchen fires, handle grease and oven fires, and know when to call 911. - [Smoke Alarms: Types, Placement, Testing and When to Replace Them](https://debaryvfa.org/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/): Ionization, photoelectric or dual-sensor? Where to put smoke alarms, how to test them, when to replace them, stopping kitchen false alarms, and CO alarm tips. - [How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide for DeBary Families](https://debaryvfa.org/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/): Build a home fire escape plan that works: map two ways out, pick a meeting place, practice twice a year, and plan for kids, older adults, pets and shutters. - [Firefighter Rehab: Why Hydration, Rest and Cooling Save Lives on the Fireground](https://debaryvfa.org/firefighter-rehab-hydration-saves-lives/): What firefighter rehab is, why Florida heat makes it critical, what DeBary's Support 33 carries, and how residents can help with water, ice and snacks. - [From Bucket Brigades to DeBary: A History of America’s Volunteer Fire Service](https://debaryvfa.org/history-of-volunteer-fire-service/): From Ben Franklin's 1736 Union Fire Company to DeBary's 1953 volunteers, see how volunteer firefighting shaped America and why 62% of firefighters volunteer. - [Hurricane Season Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety: Generators, Candles, Fuel and Downed Lines](https://debaryvfa.org/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/): Stay safe from fire and carbon monoxide this hurricane season: CPSC generator rules, CO alarms, candles, fuel storage, downed power lines and a storm kit. - [How to Volunteer in Fire and EMS in DeBary, Florida](https://debaryvfa.org/how-to-volunteer-fire-ems-debary-florida/): Want to serve DeBary's firefighters? Compare association, support and reserve roles, Florida firefighter and EMT certification, CPR, CERT and how to apply. - [Brush Fire and Wildfire Preparedness for DeBary and Central Florida Homes](https://debaryvfa.org/brush-fire-wildfire-preparedness-central-florida/): Prepare your DeBary home for brush fire season: Firewise defensible space, Florida yard debris burning rules, Volusia burn bans and an evacuation go-bag. - [Fire Station 39: What DeBary’s Second Fire Station Means for Your Neighborhood](https://debaryvfa.org/fire-station-39-debary/): DeBary's Fire Station 39 opened Jan. 9, 2026 on Fort Florida Road. What it means for response times, river rescues, ISO ratings and how residents can help. ## Optional - [Accessibility Statement](https://debaryvfa.org/accessibility-statement/): Our commitment to an accessible website that meets WCAG 2.2 Level AA, the steps we have taken, known limitations, and how to request help or other formats. - [Cookie Policy](https://debaryvfa.org/cookie-policy/): The cookies debaryvfa.org uses for the shop cart, logins, security and consent, how long they last, and how to change your choices. No advertising cookies. - [Disclaimer](https://debaryvfa.org/disclaimer/): Key disclaimers: we are not an emergency service, safety tips are educational, we don't speak for the City or fire department, and gifts aren't deductible. - [DMCA Policy](https://debaryvfa.org/dmca-policy/): How to report copyright infringement on debaryvfa.org under the DMCA, what a notice must include, counter-notices, and our repeat infringer policy. - [Donation, Shipping & Refund Policy](https://debaryvfa.org/donation-refund-policy/): How DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team donations are used, challenge coin shipping and local pickup, and how to request a refund, return or replacement. - [Privacy Policy](https://debaryvfa.org/privacy-policy/): How the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team collects, uses, shares and protects information from our website, forms, online shop and communications. - [Terms and Conditions](https://debaryvfa.org/terms-and-conditions/): Terms for using the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team website, online shop, donations, events and hall use, including liability limits and Florida law. - [Full text of this site for LLMs](https://debaryvfa.org/llms-full.txt) - [XML sitemap](https://debaryvfa.org/sitemap_index.xml) --- # Basket URL: https://debaryvfa.org/basket/ ## You may be interested in… --- # Home URL: https://debaryvfa.org/ ## The Headlines - Fire Station 39 is open! DeBary’s second fire station opened on Fort Florida Road in January 2026. Proceeds from our 2024 Pancake Breakfasts and our Challenge Coin go toward supplies and equipment for the new station. [Read what it means for your neighborhood](/fire-station-39-debary/). - We continue our celebration of more than 70 years of service to the city with our Challenge Coin. Click [here](/coins/) for details on this “fun-draiser”, or order online in our [support store](/shop/). - Our famous Pancake Breakfasts are usually held twice in the spring and twice in the fall at Florence K. Little Hall. Dates are posted on our [events page](/upcoming-events/), the [calendar](/calendar/) and our Facebook page. - All residents and businesses in the City of DeBary receive our annual fundraising mailer. We need the support of every resident and business in DeBary in order to continue our mission to support our Firefighters and other First Responders — please see more information [here](/fundraisers/). IMPORTANT INFORMATION FOR OUR NEIGHBORS The DeBary Fire Department and the DeBary Fire Support Team DO NOT do any door-to-door fundraising. If you are approached by an individual claiming to be raising funds for “firefighters” or “the new fire station”, please contact the DeBary office of the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. This is NOT an authorized fundraiser for our Association. If you would like to support us by making a direct donation, please click [here](/support/). ## The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team Big News! In order to more accurately represent our purpose and activities in and around the City of DeBary, we have filed a new name (DBA) for our group: “The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team”. We feel that this new name will lessen any confusion between our organization and the City of DeBary Fire Department (which is actually staffed by the Orange City firefighters). We will be keeping our existing name, “The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association”, as our overall legal identity. We thank you all for your continued support! Originally, the DVFA was organized as the first fire department to serve the area which is now known as the City of DeBary, long before it became a city. We have evolved over the years, but we still exist to serve the citizens and visitors through promotion of Fire Safety Ideals, and through fundraising and other support for the Emergency Responders in the city. The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association is a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt organization. ## Did you know? Association members currently give about 2,000 volunteer hours per year to the city and residents of DeBary — and more than 1,500 men and women have served since the group was formed in 1953. [Learn more: a brief history](/history/) [About us](/about-us/) --- # Shop URL: https://debaryvfa.org/shop/ --- # About Us URL: https://debaryvfa.org/about-us/ The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association — doing business as The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team — was founded by neighbors in 1953 as the first fire department for the area that would one day become the City of DeBary, Florida. More than seventy years later we still exist for one reason: to serve the citizens and visitors of DeBary and the emergency responders who protect them. ### 1953 Founded June 23, 1953 by DeBary residents. ### 1,500+ Men and women who have served since then. ### ~2,000 hours Volunteered to the city and residents each year. ### Support 33 Our rehab unit, in service since 2022. ## Our mission We serve the citizens and visitors of DeBary through the promotion of fire-safety ideals, and through fundraising and other support for the emergency responders in the city. In practice that means three things: - Supporting responders on scene. When requested by the Chief or officer-in-charge, our Support Members bring [Support 33](/the-new-support-33/) to fires and extended emergencies to provide rehab — water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, shade, cooling and a place to recover — for firefighters, deputies, medics and others. We also help displaced residents with immediate comfort and clothing. - Equipping the department. Through [pancake breakfasts, our annual mailer and Challenge Coins](/fundraisers/) we buy equipment and supplies that may not fit the fire department’s regular budget — from a drop tank for areas without hydrants to supplies for [Fire Station 39](/fire-station-39-debary/). - Educating our neighbors. From Fire Prevention Week resources to our [safety blog](/blog/) and [interactive checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/), we help DeBary families prevent fires and prepare for emergencies. ## Who we are — and who we are not Because our roots are in DeBary’s original volunteer fire department, people sometimes assume we are the fire department. We are not. Since 2009 the City of DeBary has contracted fire and rescue services to the Orange City Fire Department, whose career firefighters staff DeBary’s stations. In 2023 we filed the name “The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team” to reduce that confusion, while keeping “The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association” as our legal identity. We never fundraise door-to-door. If someone comes to your door claiming to collect for “firefighters” or “the new fire station,” please contact the DeBary office of the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. Give safely through our [Support page](/support/). ## Our story in brief In October 1952 a group of residents met to talk about the lack of fire protection; the Association was legally formed on June 23, 1953. The first engine, a 1943 Chevrolet pumper-tanker, arrived in 1954, and DeBary’s first firehouse was dedicated at 10 Colomba Road in 1955 — the same building that serves as our Association Hall today. When Volusia County took over fire protection in 1984, the Support Team was born, and in 1989 members founded the Mutual Aid Support Team (MAST). Read the full [Association History](/history/). ## Leadership The Association is governed by a volunteer board elected by its members. Our officers include President Alan Crawford (serving since 1983), Vice President for membership Donald Neyer (50 years of service), Treasurer & Quartermaster David Butlien, Secretary Yvonne Staab, and Directors David Casey and Judy Crawford. [Meet our board and members](/members/). ## Our values ### Service We show up — at 3 a.m. brush fires, at Christmas parades and at the pancake griddle. ### Integrity Every dollar raised in DeBary is used to support DeBary’s responders and residents. ### Education Prevention saves more lives than any piece of equipment. ### Community Neighbors helping neighbors — the same idea that started us in 1953. ## Partners & thanks We are grateful to the City of DeBary, the Orange City Fire Department, Volusia County Fire Rescue, Clay County Fire Rescue, DeBary Paint and Body, Image Works, The Coloni Family Foundation and every resident and business who has cooked, donated, volunteered or simply bought a pancake. ## Frequently asked questions [Join us](/volunteer/) [Contact us](/contact/) ## FAQ Q: Is the Support Team the DeBary Fire Department? A: No. Fire and rescue service in DeBary is provided by the Orange City Fire Department under contract with the City. We are an independent volunteer association that supports those firefighters and our residents. Q: What does “DVFA” stand for? A: DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association — our legal name since 1953. Since 2023 we also do business as The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team. Q: How is the Association funded? A: Entirely by community support: pancake breakfasts, our annual mailer, Challenge Coins, online and mailed donations, and partner fundraisers. Q: What is the Association’s tax status? A: We are a 501(c)(4) tax-exempt social welfare organization. Contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. --- # What We Offer URL: https://debaryvfa.org/services/ Everything we do is volunteer-run and focused on DeBary. Here are the six ways we serve our community — and how you can request or support each one. 01 · ON-SCENE SUPPORT ## Firefighter rehab with Support 33 When requested by the Chief or officer-in-charge, Support 33 responds to fires and long-duration emergencies with water, sports drinks, energy snacks, ice, shade, fans, portable air conditioning, generators and a place to rest — helping prevent heat injury and dehydration among firefighters, deputies and medics. Who requests it: incident commanders. How you can help: [sponsor rehab supplies](/product/firefighter-rehab-supplies-donation/) or donate water and ice. [What a support unit does ](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/) 02 · RESIDENTS IN NEED ## Comfort for displaced families A house fire can force people out with nothing but what they are wearing. Support 33 carries an assortment of clothing and comfort items, and our volunteers provide a warm (or cool) place to sit while families wait for help from the Red Cross and their insurers. Who requests it: incident commanders. How you can help: contact us before donating clothing so we can store what’s needed. 03 · EDUCATION ## Fire-safety presentations Our volunteers share practical, age-appropriate safety lessons with schools, scouts, HOAs, churches, senior communities and businesses: escape planning, smoke and CO alarms, kitchen safety, lithium-ion battery charging, hurricane-season generator safety and brush-fire readiness. Cost: free (donations welcome). Lead time: please request at least three weeks ahead. [Request a presentation](#request-presentation) 04 · MEETING SPACE ## Association Hall use DeBary’s first firehouse (1955) at 10 Colomba Road is available to community groups for one-time or recurring meetings — with a TV monitor, projector and screen, whiteboard, board table and seminar seating. We ask only for a donation. [Request the Hall](/facility-usage/#dvfa-forms) [Hall use donation](/product/association-hall-use-donation/) 05 · COMMUNITY EVENTS ## Pancake breakfasts, parades & open houses Our famous Pancake Breakfasts, the DeBary Christmas Parade, “Santa Claus is Coming to Town” rides and fire-station open houses bring neighbors and firefighters together — and raise money for equipment. [See upcoming events](/upcoming-events/) 06 · SUPPORT STORE ## Challenge Coins & donations Our 70th-anniversary Challenge Coin ($20, 2-inch, in a capsule) and online donation options let anyone support DeBary’s firefighters — locally or from across the country. [Visit the store](/shop/) ## Request a fire-safety presentation --- # Fire Safety and Prevention URL: https://debaryvfa.org/safety/ Preventing fires — and knowing exactly what to do when one starts — is the most effective way to protect your family. Here you’ll find the Support Team’s fire-safety resources for DeBary homes, plus our practical guides written for Central Florida. ## National Fire Prevention Week National Fire Prevention Week is observed every October. The week is chosen each year because it includes the anniversary of “The Great Chicago Fire” of 1871. (Yes, that’s the one that was allegedly started by Mrs. O’Leary’s cow.) 2026 theme: NFPA’s Fire Prevention Week for 2026 (October 4–10) focuses on lithium-ion batteries for the second year in a row: “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” Read our guide to [safe charging of e-bikes, scooters and phones](/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/), and explore NFPA’s [Fire Prevention Week resources and educational materials](https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week). Each year the Support Team joins DeBary’s firefighters for open houses and community events — in 2023 we welcomed neighbors at the DeBary Fire Station 33 Open House. Watch our [events page](/upcoming-events/) and Facebook for this year’s dates. ## Our fire-safety guides ### [Smoke alarms](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/) Where to install them, how to test them and when to replace them. ### [Home escape plan](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/) Two ways out of every room, a meeting place, and practice. ### [Kitchen safety](/kitchen-cooking-fire-safety/) Cooking is the leading cause of home fires — here’s how to stay safe. ### [Lithium-ion batteries](/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/) Safe charging for e-bikes, scooters, tools and phones. ### [Hurricane season](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/) Generators, carbon monoxide and power-outage fire risks. ### [Brush fires](/brush-fire-wildfire-preparedness-central-florida/) Protecting your property during Florida’s dry season. ## Try our interactive home safety checklist Work through our [Home Fire-Safety Checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/) — it saves your progress in your browser and includes a smoke-alarm replacement calculator. [Open the checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/) [Request a safety talk](/services/#presentation) ## Frequently asked questions ## FAQ Q: Who do I call in a fire or medical emergency in DeBary? A: Always call 911. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team is a volunteer association that supports firefighters; it is not an emergency service. Q: Can the Support Team give a fire-safety talk to my group? A: Yes. Schools, scouts, HOAs, churches, senior communities and businesses can request a fire-safety presentation using the form on our Services page. Q: When is Fire Prevention Week? A: Fire Prevention Week is observed every October during the week of October 9, the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire of 1871. In 2026 it runs October 4–10 with the theme “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.” --- # Home Fire-Safety Checklist URL: https://debaryvfa.org/fire-safety-checklist/ How fire-ready is your home? Tick off each item you’ve already done. Your score updates as you go and is saved in this browser so you can come back later. Then use the calculator to see when your smoke alarms are due for replacement. ## Go deeper - [Smoke alarms: placement, testing and replacement](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/) - [Home fire escape planning, step by step](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/) - [Kitchen and cooking fire safety](/kitchen-cooking-fire-safety/) - [Lithium-ion batteries and safe charging](/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/) - [Hurricane season, generators and carbon monoxide](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/) - [Brush fire and wildfire preparedness](/brush-fire-wildfire-preparedness-central-florida/) This checklist is general guidance and does not replace a professional inspection or the instructions of your local fire department. In an emergency, call 911. --- # Safety Blog URL: https://debaryvfa.org/blog/ --- # The “NEW” Support 33 URL: https://debaryvfa.org/the-new-support-33/ In 2021, led by the efforts of DVFA Member Dave Casey, a current Fire Science Educator and retired Fire Chief who served with multiple departments during his career, the Association set its sights on replacing our 1995 Chevy Support unit, which previously served as a Rescue vehicle for the Orange City Fire Department. ## From ambulance to support unit Chief Casey worked with his friends at [Clay County Fire Rescue](https://www.claycountygov.com/government/fire-rescue) to obtain one of their recently decommissioned ambulances. Clay County generously agreed to donate the vehicle to the Association, and it was added to the City of DeBary Fire fleet. We worked with DeBary Paint and Body to rehabilitate the vehicle, including removal of old lettering, and an exterior repaint and finish. DeBary Paint and Body generously donated a large portion of their labor costs for this project. Next, the vehicle went to Image Works in Orange City, who did all of the customized lettering and striping for us. The “NEW” Support 33 went in service in early 2022, after its debut in the 2021 DeBary Christmas Parade. ## Timeline of the project - 2021 ### A plan to replace the 1995 unit Led by member Dave Casey, the Association looks for a dependable replacement for its aging Chevy support unit. - 2021 ### Clay County donates an ambulance Clay County Fire Rescue donates a recently decommissioned ambulance to the Association. - 2021 ### Paint, body and lettering DeBary Paint and Body refinishes the vehicle; Image Works in Orange City applies the lettering and striping. - Dec 2021 ### Parade debut Support 33 makes its first public appearance in the DeBary Christmas Parade. - 2022 ### In service Support 33 begins responding to fires and extended incidents to support firefighters and other responders. ## Thank you Our sincerest thanks go out to Clay County Fire, DeBary Paint and Body, Image Works, Mayor Karen Chasez, and The Coloni Family Foundation, who all helped make this possible. [Learn about what a “support unit” does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/) [Help keep it stocked](/support/) --- # What does a Support Unit do? URL: https://debaryvfa.org/what-does-a-support-unit-do/ Generally, a Support Unit such as the DVFA’s [Support 33](/the-new-support-33/) is requested by the Chief or other officer-in-charge to respond to the scene of a fire or other emergency to provide aid to the Firefighters, Police Officers, Medics, and others. ## Hydration and recovery We carry water and sports drinks, and energy snacks on our vehicle at all times, along with coolers of ice. We provide these to the responders, to help them stay hydrated and energized: by the time a firefighter has exhausted his/her 1st air bottle in a fire, they could have lost as much as a quart of fluids due to the exertion and the exposure to heat. We provide them with a cool, sheltered place to sit and recover, as they replenish that fluid loss. In the brief colder part of the year here in Central Florida, we can provide a warm and dry place to rest. In the case of a longer-duration event, we can source additional foods (like sandwiches) from area stores and restaurants. You may recall that in 2019, the City of DeBary had a large brush fire that lasted several days, and we were pleased to get the support of citizens like you who donated cases of water and drinks, pizzas, sandwiches, and other snacks, plus bags and bags of ice! We thank you all greatly for that! ## What’s on board ### Hydration Bottled water, sports drinks, coolers of ice. ### Energy Energy snacks; meals sourced locally for long events. ### Cooling & shelter Fans, portable air conditioning, tents, tables and chairs. ### Power Generators and cords to run lights and cooling equipment. ### First aid A first-aid kit for minor needs at the rehab area. ### Clothing An assortment of clothes for fire victims who fled a residence with nothing. Learn more about why this matters in our article [Firefighter Rehab: Why Hydration, Rest and Cooling Save Lives](/firefighter-rehab-hydration-saves-lives/). ## How you can help If you can help us maintain stock of any of these consumable items, please send us an email at [firesupport@debaryvfa.org](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org), or click [HERE](/support/) for donation information. ## FAQ Q: Who requests Support 33? A: Generally the Chief or another officer-in-charge requests the support unit to respond to a fire or other emergency to aid firefighters, police officers, medics and others. Q: Can I donate water or ice? A: Yes. Consumable items such as bottled water, sports drinks, snacks and ice are always needed. Email firesupport@debaryvfa.org or see our Support page for donation options. --- # Association History URL: https://debaryvfa.org/history/ Over 1,500 men and women have given of their time and skills to the citizens and visitors of DeBary since the group was formed. ## A Look Back In October of 1952, a group of residents got together to discuss the lack of fire protection; two weeks later, they decided to start a volunteer fire company. On June 23, 1953, the legal papers were received back, and the DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association was born. Ed Healy was named the first Fire Chief and the first call came in October for a brush fire. The department obtained its first fire engine in May of 1954; a 1943 Chevrolet combination pumper tanker from the city of Leesburg. The engine may have been an Army Air Force surplus truck; Leesburg was an Army Air Corps base during the war. The city’s first firehouse was finished and dedicated on February 13, 1955. This building still stands at 10 Colomba Rd. and now serves as our Association Hall. ## Timeline - 1952 ### Neighbors organize Residents meet in October to discuss the lack of fire protection and decide to start a volunteer fire company. - 1953 ### The Association is born Legal papers are received on June 23, 1953. Ed Healy becomes the first Fire Chief; the first call, in October, is a brush fire. - 1954 ### First fire engine A 1943 Chevrolet combination pumper-tanker is obtained from the city of Leesburg. - 1955 ### First firehouse Dedicated on February 13, 1955 at 10 Colomba Road — still standing as our Association Hall. - 1962 ### Recreation Hall In March, the Firemen’s Recreation Hall is dedicated; it is now known as Florence K. Little Hall. - 1974 ### Station 14 A new metal fire house is built beside the original, big enough for multiple vehicles, offices and crew quarters. - 1983 ### 911 arrives In December, DeBary gets 911 service. - 1984 ### County service & the Support Team The department comes under County control (Volusia County Fire Services) with the first full-time firefighters. The fire house is redesignated Station 33, and the Support Team is born. - 1989 ### MAST Members found the Mutual Aid Support Team (MAST), forerunner of today’s Firefighter Support Team. - 2009 ### Orange City Fire The city contracts fire/rescue services to the Orange City Fire Department, who now staff our station. - 2015 ### Engine 33 The city buys the newest Engine 33 from Pierce Mfg. — a 1,250 GPM pump, 750 gallons of water and medical and rescue equipment. - 2017 ### New Station 33 In July 2017 the new Station 33 opens — the third fire house in DeBary history. - 2022 ### The NEW Support 33 A donated Clay County ambulance, refurbished with community help, goes into service. - 2023 ### 70 years & a new name The Association celebrates 70 years of service, introduces its first Challenge Coin and files the DBA “The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team”. - 2026 ### Station 39 DeBary’s second fire station opens on Fort Florida Road in January 2026. ## Growing with DeBary March 1962: The Firemen’s Recreation Hall was dedicated, and it is now known as Florence K. Little Hall. In 1974, a new metal fire house, Station 14, was built on the corner beside the original fire house and was big enough to house multiple vehicles as well as offices and crew quarters. In December 1983, DeBary gets 911 service. In 1984, the department came under County control, and DeBary was protected by Volusia County Fire Services, bringing the first Full-time Firefighters. The fire house was redesignated as Station 33, and the Support Team was born. Then, in 2009, the city contracted fire/rescue services to the Orange City Fire Department, who now staff our station. In 2015 the city bought the newest “Engine 33” from Pierce Mfg.; it has a 1250 GPM pump and carries 750 gallons of water, and a variety of Medical and rescue equipment. In 2016, the city decided it was time for a “new” firehouse, and in July 2017, the new Station 33 became the third fire house in DeBary history. In order to more accurately represent our purpose and activities in and around the City of DeBary, we have filed a new name (DBA) for our group: “The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team”. Because of population growth, the city planned a 2nd station: Station 39 on Fort Florida Road opened in January 2026. [Read more about Station 39](/fire-station-39-debary/). ## Our new Support Vehicle In 2021, the Association arranged to have a replacement vehicle donated to us by Clay County, FL. Thanks to DeBary residents and businesses, we were able to repaint, re-letter and equip the “New Support 33” which was put into service in 2022 — [click here to learn all about the “NEW” Support 33](/the-new-support-33/). [More photos](/gallery/) [The story of America’s volunteer fire service](/history-of-volunteer-fire-service/) ## FAQ Q: When was the DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association founded? A: Residents met in October 1952 to discuss the lack of fire protection; the legal papers were received on June 23, 1953, which is the Association’s founding date. Q: Where was DeBary’s first firehouse? A: The first firehouse was dedicated on February 13, 1955 at 10 Colomba Road. The building still stands and serves as the Association Hall. Q: Who provides fire service in DeBary today? A: Since 2009 the City of DeBary has contracted fire and rescue services to the Orange City Fire Department, which staffs DeBary’s stations. --- # Meet our Board and members URL: https://debaryvfa.org/members/ Over 1,500 men and women have given of their time and skills to the citizens and visitors of DeBary since the group was formed in 1953. Let’s meet some of the people currently serving: ## A Milestone Unrivaled Donald J. Neyer — currently serving as our Vice President in charge of membership — has celebrated his 50th year of volunteer service with the DVFA. A lifelong DeBary resident, he joined the Association at the age of 18 and became a volunteer firefighter with the Association. Note that this was LONG before it was ever dreamed that DeBary would become a city. Don rose through the ranks of the department, eventually serving as Fire Chief, before the city elected to contract out its fire protection services, first to Volusia County, and now to Orange City. Don has worked for Volusia County EMS (previously known as EVAC) since 1981 as a Paramedic, saving lives daily “On The Streets”. He is thankful for all the volunteers and career firefighters that he has worked with over the years and proud of the many who have gone on to their own careers in Fire and EMS. On December 6, 2023, Don was recognized for his long service by the DeBary City Council with a proclamation read and presented by Mayor Karen Chasez. Then we adjourned to a local eatery for a celebration in his honor. Below are some pictures from this event. For video from the presentation, click [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1hrMCxMkwKa5Y3oNvoijQj2HdqCij9L1m/view?usp=drive_link) and [here](https://drive.google.com/file/d/1YyUf9TxjzM2neFwpUPbZyUCH2EksHEp0/view?usp=drive_link). ## The rest of our leadership ### Alan Crawford President · Serving since 1983 Alan came to DeBary from northern NJ where he worked as a Respiratory Therapist and volunteered with the Hawthorne Volunteer Ambulance Corps for 7 years. Alan moved to Florida in 1982 to go to work for Florida Hospital where he worked for 30 years. He moved to DeBary in 1983 and soon joined the DVFA as a volunteer firefighter. In 1989, along with his late wife Denice, he was instrumental in founding the Mutual Aid Support Team (MAST), the forerunner of today’s Firefighter Support Team. He was also a member of the Volusia County Fire Prevention Team. He has held various leadership positions, including President and Vice-President. He currently resides in Leesburg along with his wife Judy, who also serves on our Board. Alan is also very interested and knowledgeable in the history of the DVFA and the City in general. ### David Butlien Treasurer & Quartermaster · Serving since 2017 Dave came to DeBary in 2009. Originally from New Rochelle, NY (yes, the home of the Petries on the Dick Van Dyke show), followed by a stint in the Chicago suburbs, Phyllis, David and Rachel came south. As a kid, Dave loved watching Johnny and Roy on “Emergency”, starting a lifetime interest in Emergency Services. He became certified in CPR for the first time in 9th grade. He took his first Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) class in 1982 and immediately joined both the campus emergency squad at Cornell University and a Volunteer Ambulance Corps near his home in the NYC suburbs. He soon took his first Paramedic class, and remained with Harrison EMS and other emergency services until moving to Chicagoland in 2001. There he joined the Morton Grove (IL) Emergency Services and Disaster Agency (ESDA), which became the Emergency Management Agency (EMA), where he rose to the Lieutenant and Supervisor ranks, serving this Chicago suburb in a variety of Disaster and Emergency Preparedness roles. Soon after arriving in DeBary, Dave learned of the DVFA and joined up. He now serves not only as the Treasurer, but also as the Quartermaster, in charge of supplies, equipment, and uniforms. Dave is very interested in radio communications and is a licensed Amateur (Ham) Radio operator — most of his vehicles over the last 30 years have looked like porcupines due to the multiple antennas affixed. Dave is married to Phyllis, and has one adult daughter. ### Yvonne Staab Secretary · Serving since 1991 Yvonne settled in DeBary after immigrating from Canada in 1990. In March of 1991, she joined the Association with the intention of helping out in her new community. Not long after, she was bitten by the “fire department bug” and joined DeBary Station 33, where she was a volunteer firefighter for seventeen years. Yvonne is currently part of the Support Team and has served as Secretary of our Association for so many years, it is hard to remember how long she has held the job! Yvonne is married to Paul Staab, who was a past Chief and Association President in DeBary and is a retired Firefighter from the Orange County (FL) Fire Department. Newly retired, Yvonne continues to enjoy helping out with Association events and the community in general. Her hobbies include travelling, photography, sewing, and enjoying time with friends and family. ### David Casey Director · Serving since 2019 Dave is a relatively recent addition to the DVFA, but has already made a tremendous impact with his expertise and contacts. He was, for example, instrumental in arranging the donation of our Support truck to the Association and the City of DeBary. Dave is the co-founder of Ascend Leadership, a company specializing in the development and testing of leaders in the Fire Service, and is often on the road teaching and administering promotional testing. He is an accomplished author and co-author of several books and articles, including as lead author of the NFPA/ISFSI/IAFC textbook Live Fire Training: Principles and Practice. He has been published in Fire Engineering and other regional magazines, and co-authored Fire Engineering’s video series “The Right Seat – Officer Development Beyond the Textbook” (six volumes). He served as Louisiana’s State Training Director for Municipal firefighters and previously was the Superintendent of the Florida State Fire College — overseeing the state curriculum leading to certification at the certified training centers and community colleges in the state, and directing the Florida Firefighter OSHA program. He was the Fire Chief of Clay County (FL) for 11 years, and served with several other Florida departments including Sunrise and Plantation. He has a Master’s degree in Public Administration, is a NFA EFO graduate and was a CFO designee. A Florida Instructor III, he is a frequent presenter at FDIC and various state and provincial Fire Chiefs’ and Training Conferences. Dave lives in DeBary with his wife Colleen, a former Emergency Services Dispatcher who now works for Volusia County Schools. ### Judy Crawford Director · Serving since 2011 Judy came to Florida from Fall River, Massachusetts almost 40 years ago. She has worked in various fields: manufacturing, retail, daycare and most recently eldercare. She joined the Association in 2011, shortly after being introduced to her husband Alan. She has been a director for the Association since 2016. Her outside interests include gathering with friends both inside and outside the Association, playing cards and bingo, and helping the community at large. ## Member List These members have been invaluable to the Association and continue in active service. 50 YearsDonald Neyer 40+ YearsAlan Crawford 35+ YearsSteve Henning 30+ YearsJosie MormandoYvonne Staab 20+ YearsDon Schulz 10+ YearsJudy Crawford 5+ YearsBrian BeskeCaroline BeskeDavid ButlienMelissa PattonAmy PerkinsEddie Redmond [Join them — volunteer](/volunteer/) --- # Upcoming Events URL: https://debaryvfa.org/upcoming-events/ Come out and support your local First Responders! Our most popular events are our Pancake Breakfasts at Florence K. Little Hall in DeBary — for the donation of your choosing, you can enjoy pancakes, scrambled eggs, sausage, coffee and orange juice, cooked and served by your volunteers alongside some of your professional firefighters. ## What’s next Pancake Breakfast dates: we generally hold two breakfasts in the spring (usually February and April) and two in the fall (usually September and November). New dates are added here and on our [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/DeBaryVolunteerFiremensAssociation) as soon as they are confirmed. See [Fundraisers](/fundraisers/) for more. [Click HERE to see the full Association calendar](/calendar/) ## Past events --- # Calendar URL: https://debaryvfa.org/calendar/ The calendar shown below contains not only Support Team events (meetings, training, fundraisers) but also shows when our building is occupied. Click any entry for details. ### Monthly meeting 2nd Wednesday of every month at 6:30 pm, Association Hall. ### Drill night Every Wednesday at 7:00 pm — volunteer applications can be dropped off. ### Need the Hall? Check availability here, then [request the Hall](/facility-usage/). --- # Photo Gallery URL: https://debaryvfa.org/gallery/ Scenes, events and seven decades of history. Use the album buttons to filter, and click any photo to open the full-size viewer. At many working fires the DVFST is there with Support 33, providing aid to firefighters from several departments. Unit key: BAT – Battalion Chief; CH – Department Chief(s); SQE – Squad Engine; E – Engine; T – Tanker Engine. 33 – DeBary Fire; 67, 68 – Orange City Fire; 30, 32, 45 – Volusia County Fire Services; 81, 83 – DeLand Fire. [See recent photos on Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DeBaryVolunteerFiremensAssociation) --- # Support the Association URL: https://debaryvfa.org/support/ We need YOU! We really need the support of our community right now. If you can make a donation to help us continue our mission, we would greatly appreciate it. See below for a list of ways to donate money, support our association and even donate your time! ## Donate online Your gift helps us restock the consumed [items](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/) we carry on our vehicle and buy equipment for DeBary’s firefighters. Choose an amount and complete a secure checkout — no account needed. - Water, sports drinks, snacks and ice for firefighter rehab - Tools and equipment outside the department’s regular budget - Supplies for DeBary’s newest station, [Station 39](/fire-station-39-debary/) ## Other ways to give ### PayPal Send a gift via PayPal. [Donate @ PayPal](https://www.paypal.me/dvfa) ### Venmo Use ID @DeBary-VFA (you might also need the last 4 digits of our phone number: 2469). ### Mail a check Payable to “The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association”PO Box 530853DeBary, FL 32753-0853 ### Donate supplies Water, drinks, snacks or ice for Support 33 — [email us](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org) to arrange. ### Volunteer We would love to hear from you, even if you only have a small amount of time available. [Volunteer](/volunteer/) ### Challenge Coins Own a piece of DeBary fire history and support Station 39. [Get a coin](/coins/) ### Fundraisers Pancake breakfasts, our annual mailer campaign and more. [Learn more](/fundraisers/) Tax notice: The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association is a 501(c)(4) organization. Contributions or gifts to the Association are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. See our [Donation, Shipping & Refund Policy](/donation-refund-policy/). ## Questions about giving ## FAQ Q: Are donations tax-deductible? A: No. The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association is a 501(c)(4) organization, and contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Q: Does the Support Team go door-to-door? A: Never. Neither the DeBary Fire Department nor the Support Team does door-to-door fundraising. Please report anyone who claims otherwise to the DeBary office of the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. Q: What is my donation used for? A: Restocking consumables carried on Support 33 (water, sports drinks, snacks, ice) and buying equipment and supplies for the fire department that may not fit its regular budget — such as a drop tank for areas without hydrants. Q: Do you accept Zelle? A: No. We accept online checkout on this website, PayPal, Venmo and checks by mail. --- # Challenge Coins URL: https://debaryvfa.org/coins/ ## Be a Part of Our History… And support our DeBary First Responders The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association celebrated its 70th year of service to our community in 2023. Established long before the City of DeBary was even envisioned, the Association was organized to provide fire protection to a rural but growing area in Volusia County, FL. To celebrate this milestone, we created our first-ever Challenge Coin with our logo on the front, and our original engine and current support unit shown on the back. The coin is 2” in diameter and comes in a “capsule” case. Our city is still growing, and DeBary’s second fire station — [Station 39](/fire-station-39-debary/) — opened in January 2026. We would like to contribute towards outfitting the new station and vehicles, so the coin is part of our fund-raising drive for this purpose. Your donation of $20.00 per coin will help us purchase supplies and equipment for Fire Station 39. Shipping is an additional $7 for up to 2 coins. [Contact us](mailto:treasurer@debaryvfa.org) for shipping information on larger quantities. [ Order online](/product/70th-anniversary-challenge-coin/) [Visit the store](/shop/) ## Other ways to order - PayPal: send your payment and provide your contact & shipping information to us at [www.paypal.me/dvfa](https://www.paypal.me/dvfa). - Venmo: provide payment using our ID @DeBary-VFA. Please be sure to provide your contact & shipping information. - By US Mail: mail your check or money order payable to The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association, along with shipping instructions and contact information, to PO Box 530853, DeBary FL 32753-0853 (checks will be held for clearance). - Note: we do NOT accept Zelle payments. Local pickup can be arranged. Shipping cost pertains only to US sales. Please email us to discuss any shipping outside of the US. Registered mail and/or insurance for the shipment is NOT included. See our [Donation, Shipping & Refund Policy](/donation-refund-policy/). Contact [us](mailto:treasurer@debaryvfa.org) with any questions about the coin, or the ordering process. --- # Fundraisers URL: https://debaryvfa.org/fundraisers/ ## Fundraising News All residents and businesses in the City of DeBary should receive our annual Fundraising Campaign mailer. We need the support of every resident and business in DeBary in order to continue our mission to support our Firefighters and other First Responders. ## To make a donation There are several ways that you can donate to help us do our job: - Online: give securely through our [donation page](/support/). - By Mail: send a check payable to “The DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association” and mail it to PO Box 530853, DeBary FL 32753-0853. - PayPal: [www.paypal.me/dvfa](https://www.paypal.me/dvfa) - Venmo: [venmo.com](https://venmo.com/) using ID @DeBary-VFA (you might also need the last 4 digits of our phone number: 2469). Please remember — NO representative of the DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association / DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team will do any door-to-door fundraising. ## Our famous Pancake Breakfast Our most frequent, and most popular fundraiser is our Pancake Breakfast. Several times a year, we take over Florence K. Little Hall (which, by the way, was originally owned and built by the Association to be a firehouse), and whip up a little something for our visitors. Pancakes, sausages, scrambled eggs, cheese sauce, juice, coffee, tea, you bet! For a donation of your choosing at the door, come and enjoy some good food with your neighbors, cooked and served by your volunteers in the DeBary Volunteer Firemen’s Association alongside some of your professional firefighters. We generally hold 2 breakfasts in the Spring (usually February and April), and 2 in the Fall (usually September and November). We will update our [EVENTS](/upcoming-events/) page as more dates are announced. You can also watch our [Facebook page](https://www.facebook.com/DeBaryVolunteerFiremensAssociation) for posted events! Thanks to everyone who comes out and supports us at these breakfasts. ## Why We Fundraise We hold several fundraisers a year. Monies taken in go to purchase equipment and supplies for the Fire Department: we purchase items that may not be within their regular budget in a given fiscal year. For example, one of our purchases to help protect the residents of DeBary was a new “Drop Tank”, which is used to hold water for firefighting in areas of the city that are not supplied with fire hydrants. The old tank had leaks; it was repaired to use for training, but was not dependable enough for actual emergency use. We have also purchased tools and other items. We also purchase large amounts of bottled water and other drinks, as well as energy-laden snacks and other supplies for firefighter rehabilitation at emergency scenes. This is a critical part of maintaining the health and wellness of the firefighters and other responders, to enable them to continue to perform safely. ## Challenge Coins Our 70th-anniversary [Challenge Coin](/coins/) ($20) supports supplies and equipment for Fire Station 39. Order in our [support store](/shop/). ## Virtual Mall The DVFA needs your support, and that of our community, to allow us to continue to provide our safety services for our DeBary firefighters and citizens. We have partnered with vendors who donate a portion of their sales to us. ### RADA Cutlery Thank you for supporting our fundraiser through Rada Cutlery — well known for quality Made in the USA products. Every purchase you make using our unique shopping link helps support our group! [Shop Now](https://radafundraising.com/?rfsn=5736560.b70dc3) Contributions to the DVFA, a 501(c)(4) organization, are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. --- # Volunteer URL: https://debaryvfa.org/volunteer/ We need your support! We really need the support of our community right now. If you can make a donation to help us continue our mission, please check out our [Support page](/support/) or click Donate Now to get started. [Donate Now](/support/) ## Volunteer Opportunities ### Association Member Association Members help to raise money to buy equipment for the Fire Department and otherwise support and enhance fire and rescue services for the citizens of DeBary. Duties also include both emergency and non-emergency preparedness functions, community involvement, fire prevention and fire safety education programs. ### Support Member Support Members serve to assist Firefighters and other EMS/Rescue personnel on incident scenes from outside the hazard area by providing Rehab — hydration, snacks and rest that help protect firefighters and other responders from dehydration and heat-related injury. (Heat and dehydration increase the danger of cardiac issues and dangerous mistakes.) We also help displaced occupants of a home with immediate comfort and support. Duties also include those listed under “Association Member”. [What the Support Unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/). ### Volunteer / Reserve Firefighter Florida certified Firefighter/EMTs can go through a selection process administered by the Fire Chief to serve as Reserve (Volunteer) Firefighters. The reserves work with the full-time Firefighters on shift, responding to all types of emergencies and actively participate in on-scene operations. A monthly commitment of “on duty” hours on shift is required. Thinking about a path into fire service or EMS? Read our guide [How to Volunteer in Fire & EMS in DeBary, Florida](/how-to-volunteer-fire-ems-debary-florida/). ## Volunteer Application In order to apply to join the DVFA in any of the three categories (Association Member, Support Member, Volunteer/Reserve Firefighter) you must submit BOTH of the following applications: - [DVFA Application](https://drive.google.com/open?id=1QyE_wD0X7gdq0kh78vbrb1iFDWA9MJGx) - City of Orange City employment application — required because OCFD provides Fire Service to the city. Available from the [City of Orange City](https://www.ourorangecity.com/) (or ask us and we’ll send you a copy). - Attach a photocopy of the front of your driver’s license. - If you hold a CPR certification, please include a copy with your application. - If you are applying for Volunteer/Reserve Firefighter status, please include copies of all pertinent certifications (i.e., FF Basics & Florida EMT). Please either send the completed applications by US Mail to PO Box 530853, DeBary, FL 32753-0853, OR scan them as a PDF and [email](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org?subject=application) them to us. We would also be very happy to have you drop the completed applications off with us at our building (10 Colomba Rd.) during a drill night — any Wednesday at 7 pm (please do NOT drop them at the main Firehouse). You will be contacted after we receive your application, and it will then be reviewed by our committee, and also by the City of Orange City, who will run the required background check. If you have any questions about the process please [let us know](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org). ## Not ready to apply? Tell us you’re interested ## Volunteer FAQ ## FAQ Q: Do I need firefighting experience to join? A: No. Association Members and Support Members need no prior experience — we train you. Volunteer/Reserve Firefighters must be Florida-certified Firefighter/EMTs. Q: How old do I need to be? A: Applicants must be at least 18 years old. Q: Is there a background check? A: Yes. Applications are reviewed by our committee and by the City of Orange City, which runs the required background check because the Orange City Fire Department provides fire service to DeBary. Q: How much time does it take? A: It depends on the role. Association Members help with events and fundraisers as their schedule allows; Reserve Firefighters commit to a monthly number of on-duty hours. --- # Contact Us URL: https://debaryvfa.org/contact/ Emergency? Call [911](tel:911). This form and our phone line are not monitored 24/7. ## Contact Form ## Connect With Us ### Phone [386-801-2469](tel:+13868012469)(non-emergency) ### Email [firesupport@debaryvfa.org](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org)Coins: [treasurer@debaryvfa.org](mailto:treasurer@debaryvfa.org) ### Mailing address PO Box 530853DeBary, FL 32753-0853 ### Physical address [10 Colomba RoadDeBary, FL 32713](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=10+Colomba+Road+DeBary+FL) ### Meetings 2nd Wednesday at 6:30 pmDrill night: Wednesdays 7 pm ### Social [Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/DeBaryVolunteerFiremensAssociation) DVFA Association Hall10 Colomba Road, DeBary, FL — DeBary’s first firehouse (1955) [Open in Google Maps](https://www.google.com/maps/search/?api=1&query=10+Colomba+Road+DeBary+FL) [Apple Maps](https://maps.apple.com/?q=10+Colomba+Road,+DeBary,+FL) ## Looking for something specific? ### Use the Hall [Request the Association Hall](/facility-usage/#dvfa-forms) for your group’s meeting. ### Safety talk [Request a fire-safety presentation](/services/#presentation). ### Volunteer [Tell us you’d like to help](/volunteer/#dvfa-forms). ### FAQ Quick answers in our [FAQ](/faq/). --- # Links URL: https://debaryvfa.org/links/ NOTE: DVFA does not control, monitor or in any way review the content of these sites. Clicking any of these links will take you outside the DVFA web sphere. ### Local - [The City of DeBary](https://www.debary.org/) ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/cityofdebary/)) - [The City of Orange City](https://www.ourorangecity.com/) ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCityFL/)) - The Orange City Fire Department ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/OrangeCityFire/)) - The Orange City Fire Department Cadets ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/OCFDCadets/)) - The Orange City Police Department ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/orangecitypolice/)) - The DeLand Fire Department — [City of DeLand](https://www.deland.org/) ### Regional - [Volusia County Government](https://www.volusia.org/) - [The Volusia Sheriff’s Office](https://www.volusiasheriff.gov/) ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/VolusiaSheriff/)) - [Volusia County Fire Rescue](https://www.volusia.org/services/public-protection/fire-services/) - [Volusia County EMS](https://www.volusia.org/services/emergency-services/emergency-medical-services/) - [Volusia Beach Safety](https://www.volusia.org/services/public-protection/beach-safety/) ### Statewide - [Clay County (Fire Rescue)](https://www.claycountygov.com/) — donor of our Support 33 - [State of Florida](https://www.myflorida.com/) - [The Florida Highway Patrol](https://www.flhsmv.gov/florida-highway-patrol/) - [The Florida Department of Law Enforcement](https://www.fdle.state.fl.us/) - [Florida Forest Service – Wildland Fire](https://www.fdacs.gov/Divisions-Offices/Florida-Forest-Service) - [Florida Division of State Fire Marshal](https://www.myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm) - [Florida Division of Emergency Management](https://www.floridadisaster.org/) ### National - [The American Red Cross](https://www.redcross.org/) ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/redcross/)) - [National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)](https://www.nfpa.org/) - [U.S. Fire Administration](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/) - [Ready.gov](https://www.ready.gov/) - [National Volunteer Fire Council](https://www.nvfc.org/) ### Personal favorites of our members Pages for emergency service providers that our members have been associated with around the country. - [Harrison (NY) EMS](http://www.harrisonems.com/) - [Cornell University EMS](https://cuems.cornell.edu/) ([Facebook](https://www.facebook.com/cornellems/)) --- # Facility Usage URL: https://debaryvfa.org/facility-usage/ ## Does your group need a place to hold meetings? The DVFA Association Hall at 10 Colomba Road — DeBary’s very first firehouse, dedicated in 1955 — is available for use on a one-time or recurring basis. We ask only that you make a donation to the Association. We currently have several community organizations using our building. The building is equipped with: - TV monitor capable of displaying from a computer or tablet - Projector and screen - Whiteboard - Board table - Seminar seating You can look at our [calendar](/calendar/) page to see when the building might be available, then send us a request below. For details you can also email our president at [firesupport@debaryvfa.org](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org). ## Request the Hall Submitting a request does not confirm a booking. A volunteer will contact you to confirm availability, house rules and your donation. Use of the Hall is subject to our [Terms & Conditions](/terms-and-conditions/). ## Questions ## FAQ Q: How much does it cost to use the Hall? A: There is no fixed rental fee. We ask only that your group makes a donation to the Association. Q: Can we book the Hall on a recurring basis? A: Yes — one-time and recurring (weekly or monthly) use is possible. Several community organizations already meet at our building. Q: What equipment is available? A: A TV monitor that can display from a computer or tablet, a projector and screen, a whiteboard, a board table and seminar seating. --- # Frequently Asked Questions URL: https://debaryvfa.org/faq/ Can’t find what you’re looking for? Type a keyword below, or [contact us](/contact/). ## FAQ Q: Are you the DeBary Fire Department? A: No. Fire and rescue service in DeBary is provided by the Orange City Fire Department under contract with the City. We are a volunteer association, founded in 1953 as DeBary’s first fire department, that now supports those firefighters and our residents. Q: What should I do in an emergency? A: Call 911. Our phone line and email are not monitored around the clock. Q: Are donations tax-deductible? A: No. The Association is a 501(c)(4) organization; contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. Q: Do you go door-to-door to collect money? A: Never. If someone claims to be collecting for “firefighters” or “the new fire station” at your door, contact the DeBary office of the Volusia Sheriff’s Office. Q: How can I donate? A: Online through our Support page, via PayPal (paypal.me/dvfa), Venmo (@DeBary-VFA) or by mailing a check to PO Box 530853, DeBary, FL 32753-0853. We do not accept Zelle. Q: What is my donation used for? A: Rehab supplies for Support 33 (water, sports drinks, snacks, ice) and equipment or supplies for the fire department that are outside its regular budget — including items for Fire Station 39. Q: How much is a Challenge Coin and how do I get one? A: $20 per coin plus $7 shipping for up to two coins within the US, or free local pickup in DeBary. Order in our store or see the Challenge Coins page. Q: When are the Pancake Breakfasts? A: Usually twice in the spring (February and April) and twice in the fall (September and November) at Florence K. Little Hall. Dates are posted on our events page and Facebook. Q: Who can volunteer? A: Adults 18+ can apply as Association Members or Support Members with no prior experience. Florida-certified Firefighter/EMTs can apply to become Volunteer/Reserve Firefighters. Q: How do I apply to volunteer? A: Submit both the DVFA application and the City of Orange City application (with a copy of your driver’s license and any certifications) by mail, email or in person on a Wednesday drill night at 7 pm. Details are on the Volunteer page. Q: When does the Association meet? A: Our business meeting is on the 2nd Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm; drill night is every Wednesday at 7 pm at the Association Hall, 10 Colomba Road. Q: Can my group use the Association Hall? A: Yes — one-time or recurring, in exchange for a donation. Use the request form on the Facility Usage page. Q: Can you give a fire-safety talk to my school or HOA? A: Yes. Request a free presentation on our Services page, ideally at least three weeks in advance. Q: How do I donate water, ice or snacks for Support 33? A: Email firesupport@debaryvfa.org so we can arrange a convenient drop-off and make sure we have storage space. Q: Do you install smoke alarms? A: We provide education on choosing, placing and testing smoke alarms. For an in-home alarm program, contact the City of DeBary or the American Red Cross. Try our smoke-alarm replacement calculator. Q: Can I burn yard debris in DeBary? A: Rules depend on Florida Forest Service regulations, local ordinances and any active burn ban. Always check before burning — see our brush-fire guide. Q: Where can I see photos of past events and scenes? A: In our Photo Gallery and on our Facebook page. Q: How do I report a problem with this website? A: Use the contact form and choose “Website feedback / accessibility”. --- # Sitemap URL: https://debaryvfa.org/sitemap/ --- # Image Credits URL: https://debaryvfa.org/image-credits/ Most photographs on this site are the Association’s own or were contributed by members and partners; scene photos are owned by their respective photographers, and some are courtesy of the Orange City Fire Department. They were restored from the Association’s original website archive. The following open-licensed images come from [Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/). Public-domain works by U.S. federal agencies are used freely; Creative Commons works are used under the license shown (images may be resized or cropped for layout). The use of an image does not imply endorsement by the photographer or agency. Photos of generic fire stations or equipment are illustrative and do not depict DeBary facilities unless the caption says so. If you believe an image on this site is used incorrectly, please see our [DMCA Policy](/dmca-policy/) or [contact us](/contact/). --- # Safe Charging Is a Superpower: Lithium-Ion Battery Fire Safety for Fire Prevention Week 2026 URL: https://debaryvfa.org/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/ Published: 2026-10-05 · Updated: 2026-10-05 Phones, laptops, cordless tools, vapes, power banks, e-bikes, e-scooters, hoverboards: almost everything we plug in at night now runs on a lithium-ion battery. These batteries are safe when they are well made and treated well, but when one fails it can fail violently, with intense heat, toxic smoke and fire that is hard to put out. That is why the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) chose "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower" as the theme for Fire Prevention Week, October 4–10, 2026, the second straight year the campaign has focused on lithium-ion batteries. Here is what DeBary and West Volusia households need to know to buy, charge, store and recycle batteries safely. ## Why lithium-ion batteries catch fire A lithium-ion battery packs a lot of energy into a small space. That is what makes it so useful, and also what makes it dangerous when something goes wrong. If a cell is damaged, overcharged, overheated or poorly manufactured, it can begin to heat itself in a chain reaction often called thermal runaway. One overheating cell can ignite the cells next to it, and a large battery pack, like the one under an e-bike seat or in a scooter deck, contains many cells. Common causes of battery failures include: - Cheap, uncertified devices, batteries or chargers - Using a charger that was not made for the device - Physical damage: drops, crashes, crushing or punctures - Exposure to high heat, or charging in very hot or very cold conditions - Modified, rebuilt or "reworked" battery packs, or packs made with reused cells Micromobility devices deserve special attention. In a review of deaths and injuries from 2017 through 2023, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) found that about 40 deaths across e-scooters, e-bikes and hoverboards were associated with lithium-ion battery fires. Fire was also the hazard identified in 311 of the 441 in-depth incident investigations CPSC completed for those products, and it was the most common hazard identified with hoverboards. ## Buy smart: look for certified products NFPA's first piece of battery advice is to purchase and use devices that are listed by a qualified testing laboratory. A certification mark means the product was tested against a recognized safety standard, not just that it works. CPSC likewise urges consumers to use only micromobility products designed, manufactured and certified for compliance with the applicable consensus safety standards. For the larger devices that worry firefighters most, these are the standards to look for on the product, its packaging or the seller's listing: StandardWhat it coversTypical products UL 2849Electrical systems for e-bikes (battery, charger and motor tested together)Electric bicycles UL 2272Electrical systems for personal e-mobility devicesHoverboards, e-scooters, electric unicycles and skateboards UL 2271Batteries for light electric vehicle (LEV) applicationsBattery packs for e-bikes, scooters and similar vehicles Tip: A listing for a battery alone is good, but a listing for the whole system is better. UL 2849 and UL 2272 evaluate the device's electrical system as a whole, so the battery and the charger are tested working together. If a deal looks too good to be true, check the certification before you buy. ### Replacement batteries and chargers When a battery wears out, replace it with one approved by the device's manufacturer. CPSC warns against using battery packs that have been modified or reworked by unqualified people, or packs built from reused or repurposed cells. The same goes for chargers: an inexpensive universal charger may fit the plug, but it may not match the battery's voltage, current or safety circuitry. ## Safe charging habits: your everyday superpower The 2026 campaign centers on everyday charging habits, because that is when many battery fires start. Build these into your routine: - Use the right charger. Use the charger that came with the device, or one the manufacturer approves. - Charge on a hard, flat surface. Never charge a device under a pillow, on a bed or on a couch. Soft surfaces trap heat. - Stay nearby while charging, and do not charge e-bikes, scooters or hoverboards while you sleep or while you are away from home. - Unplug when full. Follow the manufacturer's charging instructions and unplug devices once they are fully charged. - Keep exits clear. Do not charge or park e-bikes and scooters in a hallway, by the front door or anywhere that would block your way out if a fire started. - Mind the temperature. NFPA advises not charging batteries below 32°F or above 105°F. - Plug directly into the wall. Avoid running big chargers through extension cords or power strips that are not rated for the load. - Have working smoke alarms in the rooms or garage areas where you charge larger devices. See our guide to [smoke alarm placement and testing](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/). ## Warning signs of a failing battery Batteries often give you a warning before they fail. NFPA says to stop using a battery or device right away if you notice: - An unusual odor - A change in color - Too much heat - A change in shape, such as swelling or bulging (a phone screen lifting or a laptop that no longer sits flat can be a sign) - Leaking - Odd noises, such as hissing, popping or crackling - Smoke If you notice any of these, unplug the device and stop charging it. If it is safe to do so, move it away from anything that can catch fire. If the battery is smoking or burning, do not try to handle it. If a battery catches fire: Get everyone out, close the door behind you to slow the spread of fire and smoke, and call 911 from outside. Tell the dispatcher and arriving firefighters that a lithium-ion battery is involved. Battery fires can produce toxic gases and can reignite after they appear to be out. Your family's [home fire escape plan](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/) matters here as much as for any other fire. ## Florida heat, cars and garages Central Florida's climate adds a few local wrinkles to battery safety. ### Hot cars A closed vehicle sitting in a DeBary parking lot in summer can become far hotter inside than the air outside, and it happens in minutes. That is well beyond the 105°F upper limit NFPA gives for charging. Do not leave phones, power banks, tool batteries, vapes or e-bike batteries baking on a dashboard or seat, and do not charge devices in a hot car. Bring them inside with you when you can. ### Garages and lanais Many residents store e-bikes, scooters and tool batteries in the garage, which is a reasonable choice because it keeps them away from bedrooms and exits. Just remember that an uncooled Florida garage can get very hot in the summer. Keep batteries out of direct sun, away from gasoline, paint and other flammables, and off the top of a running freezer or water heater. Never charge on a pile of cardboard boxes or on a workbench cluttered with rags. ### Hurricane season and storm damage Power banks and battery-powered lanterns and fans are useful during outages, and they are much safer than candles. Charge them before the storm, on a hard surface, while you are awake. Treat any battery that has been crushed, dropped hard or soaked by floodwater as damaged: do not charge it, store it outdoors away from the house if you can do so safely, and contact the manufacturer about next steps. For more storm safety, read our guide to [hurricane season generator and carbon monoxide safety](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/). ## Storing batteries and devices safely - Store batteries away from anything that can catch fire, and at room temperature when possible. - Keep spare batteries in their original packaging or a case so the terminals cannot touch metal objects such as keys or coins. - Do not keep a growing pile of old phones, laptops and tool batteries in a junk drawer. NFPA advises against collecting discarded batteries; recycle them instead. - If you are putting an e-bike or scooter away for a while, follow the manufacturer's instructions for storage charge level. - Keep small button and coin batteries away from young children, who can swallow them. ## Recycling and disposal in Volusia County Lithium-ion batteries do not belong in your household garbage or your curbside recycling bin. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) warns that batteries damaged during collection or sorting can start fires in garbage trucks and recycling facilities, and even "dead" batteries can hold enough charge to cause a fire. ### Prepare batteries before drop-off - Cover the terminals with non-conductive tape, such as electrical tape. - Place each battery, or each device with a battery that cannot be removed, in its own clear plastic bag. - Do not toss loose batteries together in a bucket or box. - For a damaged, swollen or leaking battery, contact the manufacturer or the drop-off site first for handling instructions. ### Where to take them - Volusia County household hazardous waste facilities. The county lists household rechargeable batteries among the household hazardous wastes it collects. The facility closest to DeBary is the West Volusia Transfer Station, 3151 E. New York Ave., DeLand (386-943-7889). The county also operates a facility at the Tomoka Landfill, 1990 Tomoka Farms Road, Port Orange. Hours can change, so call ahead, especially if you need to drop off a large e-bike or scooter battery. - The Battery Network (formerly Call2Recycle). This national battery stewardship program changed its name in 2026. Its online locator at batterynetwork.org lets you search by ZIP code for nearby drop-off sites, often at retailers. Some sites accept larger batteries such as e-bike packs, so check the location details before you go. - Retailer and manufacturer take-back programs. Many electronics and home improvement stores accept small rechargeable batteries, and some e-bike makers and dealers will take back their own packs. ## Your safe charging checklist - My e-bike, scooter or hoverboard carries a UL 2849 or UL 2272 certification mark from a recognized testing lab. - I use only the manufacturer's charger and approved replacement batteries. - I charge on hard surfaces, never on beds or couches, and never while I sleep. - Large devices charge and park away from doors and escape routes. - I unplug devices when they are fully charged. - I do not leave batteries or devices in a hot car. - Everyone in my home knows the warning signs: heat, swelling, odor, leaking, noises and smoke. - Old batteries are taped, bagged and recycled, never thrown in the trash or recycling bin. Pair this list with our whole-home [fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/) during Fire Prevention Week and keep it on the refrigerator all year. ## Sources and further reading - [FireRescue1: NFPA announces Fire Prevention Week 2026 theme](https://www.firerescue1.com/fire-prevention-week/nfpa-announces-fire-prevention-week-2026-theme-safe-charging) - [NFPA: Lithium-ion battery safety tip sheet (via South Carolina State Fire)](https://www.firesafe.sc.gov/weekly/LithiumIonBatterySafety.pdf) - [CPSC: E-scooter and e-bike injuries soar (safety tips)](https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2024/E-Scooter-and-E-Bike-Injuries-Soar-2022-Injuries-Increased-Nearly-21) - [CPSC: Micromobility products-related deaths, injuries and hazard patterns, 2017–2023](https://cpsc.gov/s3fs-public/Micromobility-Products-Related-Deaths-Injuries-and-Hazard-Patterns_2017-2023.pdf) - [UL Standards & Engagement: Standards that support e-mobility device safety](https://ulse.org/news/ulse-standards-support-e-mobility-device-safety) - [EPA: Used lithium-ion batteries](https://www.epa.gov/recycle/used-lithium-ion-batteries) - [Volusia County: Disposing of household hazardous waste](https://www.volusia.org/services/public-works/solid-waste-and-recycling/disposing-of-household-hazardous-waste.stml) - [The Battery Network (formerly Call2Recycle): Drop-off locator](https://batterynetwork.org/locator/) Fire Prevention Week is one week, but fire safety education is a year-round job. [Volunteer with the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/volunteer/) to help share these messages at community events and support DeBary's firefighters on scene. ## FAQ Q: What is the Fire Prevention Week 2026 theme? A: NFPA's theme for Fire Prevention Week, October 4-10, 2026, is "Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower." It is the second straight year the campaign has focused on lithium-ion battery safety. Q: Is it safe to charge my e-bike or phone overnight? A: It is best not to. The CPSC advises staying nearby while micromobility devices charge and never charging them while you sleep, and NFPA recommends unplugging devices once they are fully charged. Q: What safety certifications should an e-bike or scooter have? A: Look for a mark from a nationally recognized testing laboratory. UL 2849 covers e-bike electrical systems, UL 2272 covers personal e-mobility devices such as hoverboards and e-scooters, and UL 2271 covers batteries for light electric vehicles. Q: Can I throw lithium-ion batteries in the trash or recycling bin? A: No. The EPA says lithium-ion batteries should not go in household garbage or curbside recycling because they can start fires in trucks and facilities. Tape the terminals, bag each battery, and take it to a battery drop-off site or a Volusia County household hazardous waste facility. Q: What should I do if a battery starts smoking or swelling? A: Stop using or charging it. If it is safe to do so, move it away from anything that can burn. If there is smoke or fire, get everyone out, close the door behind you and call 911. --- # Kitchen Fire Safety: How to Prevent and Handle Cooking Fires at Home URL: https://debaryvfa.org/kitchen-cooking-fire-safety/ Published: 2026-09-15 · Updated: 2026-09-15 Most home fires do not start with lightning, wiring or a dramatic accident. They start with dinner. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), cooking is the leading cause of reported home fires and home fire injuries in the United States, and unattended cooking is the leading factor behind them. The good news is that kitchen fires are among the most preventable fires there are. This guide walks DeBary and West Volusia families through the habits that stop cooking fires before they start, exactly what to do in the first few seconds if a pan, oven or microwave catches fire, and how to know when it is time to stop and call 911. ## Why the kitchen is where home fires start The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) estimates that fire departments responded to about 170,000 home cooking fires in 2021. Those fires caused roughly 135 deaths, 3,000 injuries and more than $494 million in property losses. In non-confined home cooking fires (the kind that spread beyond the pan or oven), unattended equipment was the leading factor in ignition, at 37 percent. Those numbers make sense when you think about how kitchen fires begin: oil heated past its smoke point, a towel too close to a burner, or a cook who steps away for "just a minute." None of these situations are unusual, which is why a few consistent habits make such a difference. Holidays raise the stakes. NFPA has long identified Thanksgiving as the peak day of the year for home cooking fires. NFPA figures cited by the Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal put the 2023 total at an estimated 1,446 home cooking fires on Thanksgiving Day alone, far above the daily average. In Florida, where the holidays often mean a full house, a warm afternoon and cooking moved outdoors, the same lessons apply on the lanai and in the driveway as in the kitchen. ## Rule one: stay in the kitchen If you remember only one thing from this article, make it this: stand by your pan. The USFA's advice is simple. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn the burner off. ### Match your attention to the type of cooking - Frying, grilling and broiling: Stay in the kitchen the entire time. These methods use the highest heat and can go from normal to flames in moments. - Simmering, baking, roasting and boiling: Check the food regularly, stay in the home while it cooks, and use a timer as a reminder that something is on. - If you see smoke or the grease starts to boil: Turn the burner off. Smoke is the warning; flames are the next step. ### Set up the stove area for safety - Keep anything that can burn (oven mitts, wooden utensils, food packaging, paper towels, dish towels and curtains) away from the stovetop. - Turn pot handles toward the back of the stove so no one can bump them or a child cannot grab them. - Wear short or close-fitting sleeves; loose sleeves can drape over a burner. - Plug kitchen appliances directly into a wall outlet, not an extension cord, and keep the stove and hood free of built-up grease. Warning: Do not cook if you are drowsy, have been drinking or have taken medication that makes you sleepy. NFPA's cooking safety guidance is blunt about this: if you are sleepy or have consumed alcohol, do not use the stove or stovetop. ## Grease fires: lid on, heat off, never water A stovetop grease fire is the classic kitchen emergency, and the instinct many people have, grabbing the pan and running it to the sink or throwing a cup of water on it, is exactly the wrong move. ### What to do, step by step - Stay calm and do not move the pan. Carrying a burning pan spills flaming oil onto you, the floor and the cabinets. - Smother it. Put on an oven mitt and carefully slide a lid or a flat baking sheet over the pan. Cutting off the oxygen puts the fire out. - Turn off the burner. Removing the heat keeps the oil from reigniting. - Leave the cover on until the pan is completely cool. Lifting the lid early can let fresh air reach oil that is still hot enough to flare up again. - If the fire is not out in a few seconds, or it is spreading, get out and call 911 from outside. ### Why water makes it worse Water is heavier than oil, so it sinks straight to the bottom of the pan, where the temperature is far above boiling. It flashes into steam almost instantly, and that expanding steam blasts burning droplets of grease up and out of the pan. Firefighter demonstrations of this produce a fireball that can reach the ceiling. Do not throw flour or other kitchen powders at it either. A lid is the safest, fastest tool you own. Tip: Before you start frying, set the matching lid or a baking sheet on the counter next to the stove. In an emergency, you will not have time to dig through a cabinet. ## Oven and microwave fires ### Oven fires If food or grease catches fire inside your oven, turn off the heat and keep the door closed. A closed oven is a box with very little oxygen, and the fire will usually burn itself out. Opening the door feeds it fresh air and can send flames toward your face and clothing. Have the oven checked before using it again if anything looks damaged. ### Microwave fires The same principle applies. If something is burning in your microwave, turn it off immediately and keep the door closed until the fire is completely out. Unplug the unit only if you can reach the outlet safely. Common causes include metal (foil, twist ties, dishes with metallic trim), heating food too long, and paper products not meant for the microwave. ## Turkey fryers and outdoor frying Deep-frying a turkey has become a holiday tradition for many Central Florida families, and our mild November weather makes outdoor cooking tempting. Oil-filled turkey fryers, however, combine gallons of very hot oil, an open propane flame and a heavy, partially frozen bird, a combination that NFPA has long discouraged for home use. If you do fry a turkey, follow the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission's (CPSC) guidelines: - Keep the fryer in full view the entire time the burner is on. - Set it up in an open area away from walls, fences and other structures. Never use it in, on or under a garage, breezeway, carport, porch or any structure that can catch fire. In Florida that includes screened lanais and pool enclosures. - Keep at least 2 feet between the propane tank and the fryer burner, and position them so wind blows the heat away from the tank. - Thaw the turkey completely (the USDA estimates 24 hours for every 4 to 5 pounds) and pat it dry. Partially frozen or wet turkeys cause dangerous splattering. - Do not overfill the pot. If the manufacturer's instructions do not give an oil amount, place the turkey in the pot, cover it with water, remove the turkey, and mark the water line. Dry the pot thoroughly and fill with oil only to that line. - Raise and lower the turkey slowly, cover bare skin, and check the oil temperature often. - If the oil begins to smoke, turn the gas supply off immediately. - If a fire starts, call 911. Do not try to put it out with water. Keep children and pets well away, and remember the oil stays dangerously hot for hours afterward. ## Kids, pets and the 3-foot kid-free zone Children are naturally curious about the stove, and scald burns from hot liquids and spilled food are a real danger even when nothing catches fire. NFPA recommends a kid-free zone of at least 3 feet around the stove and anywhere hot food or drinks are prepared or carried. - Mark the zone with tape on the floor so younger children can see the line. - Use the back burners when possible, and keep hot drinks away from table and counter edges. - Never hold a child while cooking or carrying something hot. - Give older children kitchen jobs away from the heat, and keep pets out of the cooking area. ## Fire extinguishers: the right type and the PASS method A portable extinguisher can put out a small fire or hold it in check until firefighters arrive, but only if it is the right type, you can reach it, and you know how to use it. ### Understanding extinguisher classes ClassWhat it is forKitchen notes AOrdinary combustibles: paper, wood, cloth, many plasticsDish towels, cardboard packaging, a trash can fire BFlammable and combustible liquids: gasoline, oils, keroseneSmall amounts of burning grease or oil CEnergized electrical equipment: wiring, motors, appliancesA toaster, mixer or microwave that is still plugged in DCombustible metals such as magnesium and aluminumNot a household kitchen concern KVegetable or animal oils and fats in cooking appliancesDesigned for the large oil volumes in commercial deep fryers For most homes, a multipurpose extinguisher labeled A-B-C is the practical choice. Mount it near an exit from the kitchen rather than directly beside the stove, so you can grab it while moving away from the fire and keep your escape route behind you. Check the gauge monthly and follow the manufacturer's instructions for service or replacement. When using any extinguisher on a pan of oil, start from the distance shown on the label; discharging too close can push burning grease out of the pan. For a stovetop pan fire, a lid is still your first and best option. ### PASS: four steps to remember - Pull the pin. This also breaks the tamper seal. - Aim low, pointing the nozzle at the base of the fire, not the flames. - Squeeze the handle slowly and evenly to release the agent. - Sweep from side to side at the base of the fire until it appears to be out. Watch it afterward, because fires can reignite. Practice the motions before you ever need them; hands-on extinguisher demonstrations at community fire safety events are a great way to get comfortable. ## When to get out and call 911 Fire grows fast. FEMA's Community Emergency Response Team training teaches a simple decision test before anyone picks up an extinguisher. Only fight a fire if all of these are true: - Everyone else is leaving or has left the home, and 911 has been called or is being called. - The fire is small, contained (like a single pan or wastebasket) and not growing. - The room is not filling with smoke. - You have a clear exit behind you. - Your extinguisher is the right type and size for the fire. If any answer is no, or you cannot knock the fire down within about five seconds, stop. When in doubt, get out. Leave the home, close doors behind you to slow the fire's spread, and call 911 from outside. Never go back inside for belongings or pets; tell arriving firefighters who or what may still be inside. Two other tools work alongside your extinguisher. Working smoke alarms give you the early warning that makes escape possible (the USFA suggests keeping alarms about 10 feet from the stove to cut down on nuisance alarms; see our guide to [smoke alarm placement, testing and replacement](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/)). And a practiced escape plan means everyone knows two ways out of every room; our [home fire escape plan guide](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/) shows you how to make one in an evening. Good to know: If a kitchen fire forces a family out of their home, firefighters are not the only people who show up. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team's Support 33 unit provides rehab for firefighters on scene and immediate comfort, such as water, shade and clothing, for displaced residents. Learn more about [what a support unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/). ### Your kitchen fire safety checklist - I stay in the kitchen when frying, grilling or broiling, and turn the burner off if I step away. - A lid or baking sheet is within reach whenever I cook with oil, and everyone knows: never water on grease. - Oven or microwave fire: heat off, door closed. - We keep a 3-foot kid-free zone around the stove. - An A-B-C extinguisher is mounted near the kitchen exit, and adults know PASS. - Smoke alarms are tested monthly, and our family has practiced our escape plan. For a printable, whole-home version, use our [fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/). ## Sources and further reading - [NFPA: Cooking safety](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/cooking) - [U.S. Fire Administration: Cooking fire safety](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prevent-fires/cooking/) - [CPSC: Safety tips for turkey fryers](https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2004/CPSC-Issues-Safety-Tips-for-Turkey-Fryers) - [Illinois Office of the State Fire Marshal: Thanksgiving cooking safety (citing NFPA data)](https://www.illinois.gov/content/dam/soi/en/web/illinois/iisnewsattachments/31926-111825-osfm-2025-thanksgiving-cooking-safety-release.pdf.pdf) - [FEMA IS-909 Community Preparedness: Putting out fires (extinguisher classes and PASS)](https://webarchive.library.unt.edu/web/20120913075225/http://emilms.fema.gov/IS909/assets/09_PuttingOutFires.pdf) - [Fairfax County Fire and Rescue: Fire extinguisher guidance](https://www.fairfaxcounty.gov/fire-ems/sites/fire-ems/files/Assets/documents/PDF/lse/Extinguishers.pdf) Want to help DeBary's firefighters spread the word about kitchen fire safety? [Volunteer with the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/volunteer/) and join us at community events, or [support our work](/support/) keeping firefighters hydrated and equipped. Contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. ## FAQ Q: Can I put out a grease fire with water? A: No. Water sinks under the burning oil, flashes to steam and throws flaming grease across the kitchen. Slide a lid or baking sheet over the pan, turn off the burner and leave the cover on until the pan is completely cool. Q: What should I do if my oven catches fire? A: Turn off the heat and keep the oven door closed so the fire runs out of oxygen. If the fire does not go out quickly, or smoke spreads, leave the home, close the door behind you and call 911 from outside. Q: What kind of fire extinguisher should I keep in my kitchen? A: Most homes are well served by a multipurpose extinguisher rated for Class A, B and C fires, mounted near an exit rather than right next to the stove. Class K extinguishers are designed for the large volumes of cooking oil found in commercial deep fryers. Q: How far should children stay from the stove? A: Fire safety educators recommend a kid-free zone of at least 3 feet around the stove and anywhere hot food or drinks are being prepared or carried. Q: When should I stop trying to fight a kitchen fire? A: Get out if the fire is spreading, the room is filling with smoke, you do not have a clear path to an exit, or you cannot knock it down within a few seconds. Close the door behind you and call 911 from outside. --- # Smoke Alarms: Types, Placement, Testing and When to Replace Them URL: https://debaryvfa.org/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/ Published: 2026-08-25 · Updated: 2026-08-25 Smoke alarms are the cheapest, simplest life-saving device most of us will ever own. According to NFPA, almost three in five home fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no working alarms, and the risk of dying in a home fire is about 54 percent lower in homes with working alarms. But an alarm only protects you if it is the right type, in the right place, and actually working. This guide covers everything a DeBary household needs to know. ## Why smoke alarms matter so much Many fatal home fires start at night, when people are asleep, and you cannot count on the smell of smoke to wake you in time. The U.S. Fire Administration warns that once an alarm sounds, you may have less than two minutes to get everyone outside. A working alarm buys those minutes. A missing or dead alarm takes them away. The good news is that fixing this problem is usually inexpensive and takes an afternoon. Start with a walk-through of your home and our [interactive fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/), which includes a smoke alarm replacement-date calculator. ## Know the types: ionization, photoelectric and dual-sensor The U.S. Fire Administration explains that smoke alarms fall into two basic sensor types, and each is better at detecting a different kind of fire. TypeBest at detectingTypical example IonizationFast, flaming firesPaper, grease or fabric that bursts into flame PhotoelectricSlow, smoldering, smoky firesA dropped cigarette smoldering in a sofa cushion Dual-sensorBoth kinds of fireCombines ionization and photoelectric sensors in one unit Because you cannot predict which kind of fire you might have, USFA recommends having both ionization and photoelectric alarms, or using dual-sensor alarms that contain both. Look on the package for the type, and look for the mark of an independent testing laboratory. ### Power options - Sealed 10-year battery alarms never need a battery change. You replace the whole alarm at the end of its life. - Replaceable-battery alarms need new batteries at least once a year, or as soon as they chirp. - Hardwired alarms with battery backup run on household power and keep working during an outage. USFA notes that only qualified electricians should install hardwired alarms. Battery backup is especially important in Florida, where storms can knock out power for days. ## Where to put smoke alarms NFPA and USFA placement guidance comes down to a few simple rules: - Inside every bedroom - Outside each sleeping area, such as the hallway outside the bedrooms - On every level of the home, including a basement or finished attic if you have one - On the ceiling or high on a wall, because smoke rises - About 10 feet or more from the stove or cooktop to reduce nuisance alarms Many single-story Florida homes have bedrooms on opposite ends of the house, a common split floor plan. That means you need alarms in each bedroom and outside each separate sleeping area, not just one in a central hallway. ### Placement pitfalls in Florida homes Air movement can push smoke away from an alarm. Follow the manufacturer's instructions on how far to keep alarms from air-conditioning supply vents, ceiling fans, windows and doors, and check the instructions for vaulted or peaked ceilings. Most manufacturers also advise against installing ordinary smoke alarms in places like garages, attics or bathrooms, where heat, dust, humidity or steam can cause false alarms or damage the sensor. If you are unsure, the instruction sheet that came with the alarm is the best guide for your specific model. ### Interconnect your alarms When alarms are interconnected, a fire detected in one part of the house sets off every alarm in the home. That matters if a fire starts in the living room while everyone is asleep behind closed bedroom doors. Closing bedroom doors at night is one of the best things you can do in a fire, as our [home fire escape plan guide](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/) explains, but closed doors also make a distant alarm harder to hear. USFA recommends choosing interconnected alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound. Older homes do not need to be rewired to get this protection. Many manufacturers sell wireless alarms that link to each other by radio signal. Make sure alarms from different brands are compatible before you mix them. ## Test monthly and maintain them Testing takes a few seconds per alarm. - Press and hold the test button until the alarm sounds. - Have someone stand in each bedroom with the door closed to confirm the alarm is loud enough to wake a sleeper. - If an alarm does not sound, replace the battery and test again. If it still does not sound, replace the alarm. - Gently clean the outside of the alarm with a vacuum brush attachment as the manufacturer recommends, since dust and cobwebs can affect the sensor. Tip: Pick an easy-to-remember day, such as the first of each month, to test every alarm. If your alarms use replaceable batteries, change them at least once a year, and never ignore a low-battery chirp. ## Replace alarms every 10 years Smoke alarms do not last forever. Their sensors become less reliable with age. NFPA and USFA both recommend replacing smoke alarms 10 years after the date of manufacture, which is printed on the back of the alarm. Note that it is 10 years from when the alarm was made, not from when you bought it or installed it. Many people are surprised to find alarms from the 1990s or early 2000s still hanging on their ceilings. If you cannot find a date at all, the alarm is likely old enough that it should be replaced. Use our calculator: Our [fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/) includes a smoke alarm replacement-date calculator. Enter the manufacture date from the back of each alarm and it will tell you when that alarm is due to be replaced. ## Stop nuisance alarms without disabling protection An alarm that goes off every time someone sears a steak or takes a hot shower is annoying, and frustrated residents sometimes pull the battery out. That is dangerous. USFA is blunt about it: never take the battery out of your smoke alarm while cooking. Instead: - Move the alarm. USFA recommends moving the entire alarm several feet farther from the kitchen or bathroom if it keeps sounding from cooking or steam. - Use the hush button. Many alarms have a button that silences them for a few minutes while smoke clears. - Ventilate. Turn on the range hood fan and open a window while cooking. - Consider alarm type. Ask about alarms designed to reduce cooking nuisance alarms for areas near the kitchen, and follow the manufacturer's placement guidance. - Replace old alarms. An aging alarm that sounds for no reason may simply be at the end of its life. Cooking is the leading cause of home fires and home fire injuries, according to NFPA, so a working alarm near the kitchen is a must. Our article on [kitchen and cooking fire safety](/kitchen-cooking-fire-safety/) has more tips. ## Options for people who are deaf or hard of hearing A standard alarm may not wake someone with hearing loss, especially at night when hearing aids or cochlear implant processors are removed. USFA notes that there are alarms made for people with hearing loss that use strobe lights and vibration to alert them. Options include: - Strobe light alarms that flash a bright light along with the sound. - Bed shakers placed under the pillow or mattress that vibrate when an alarm sounds. - Low-frequency sound alarms, which produce a deeper tone that can be easier to hear for people with high-frequency hearing loss. These devices often work with existing smoke alarms through a receiver that listens for the alarm's sound. Talk with the person who will be using it about which combination works best for them, and include their alert method in your family's escape plan. ## Don't forget carbon monoxide alarms Smoke alarms do not detect carbon monoxide (CO), the invisible, odorless gas produced by burning fuel. CDC reports that every year, more than 400 Americans die from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, more than 100,000 visit an emergency department, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized. In Central Florida, CO risks include gas water heaters, stoves and dryers, cars left running in attached garages, and especially portable generators run too close to the home after a storm. CPSC recommends CO alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. CDC advises using battery-operated or battery-backup CO detectors and replacing them according to the manufacturer's instructions, or about every five years. - Install CO alarms outside each sleeping area and on every level. - Consider combination smoke and CO alarms, which can simplify installation. - Test CO alarms monthly, just like smoke alarms. - Check the replacement date. CO alarms usually have a shorter life than smoke alarms. - If a CO alarm sounds, get everyone outside to fresh air immediately and call 911. Read our [hurricane season generator and CO safety guide](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/) before storm season. ### Quick smoke alarm checklist - Alarm inside every bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level - Both ionization and photoelectric protection, or dual-sensor alarms - Alarms interconnected so one sounds them all - Every alarm tested this month - No alarm older than 10 years from its manufacture date - Alerting devices in place for anyone who is deaf or hard of hearing - CO alarms on every level and outside sleeping areas ## Sources and further reading - [NFPA: Smoke Alarms](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/smoke-alarms) - [U.S. Fire Administration: Smoke Alarms](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prepare-for-fire/smoke-alarms/) - [NFPA: Cooking Fire Safety](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/cooking) - [CDC: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics](https://www.cdc.gov/carbon-monoxide/about/index.html) - [CPSC: Portable Generators and Carbon Monoxide Deaths](https://www.cpsc.gov/content/winter-warning-portable-generators-hold-top-spot-in-cpsc-report-on-carbon-monoxide-deaths) - [Indiana Department of Homeland Security: Smoke Alarm Safety Tips](https://www.in.gov/dhs/files/Smoke-Alarms-Safety-Tips.pdf) Want to help neighbors stay safe? The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team is always looking for people who care about their community. [Find out how to volunteer](/volunteer/). ## FAQ Q: How often should I replace my smoke alarms? A: Replace smoke alarms 10 years after the date of manufacture printed on the back of the alarm, even if they still seem to work. Our fire safety checklist includes a calculator that shows your replacement date. Q: Which is better, ionization or photoelectric? A: Each type responds faster to a different kind of fire: ionization to fast, flaming fires and photoelectric to slow, smoldering fires. The U.S. Fire Administration recommends having both types or using dual-sensor alarms. Q: Where should smoke alarms go? A: Install smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level of the home, on the ceiling or high on a wall. Keep them about 10 feet from cooking appliances to reduce nuisance alarms. Q: How often should I test smoke alarms? A: Test every smoke alarm once a month using the test button. If your alarms use replaceable batteries, replace them at least once a year or as soon as the alarm chirps. Q: Do I need a carbon monoxide alarm in Florida? A: If your home has any fuel-burning appliance, an attached garage, or you ever run a generator, yes. CPSC recommends CO alarms on every level of the home and outside sleeping areas. --- # How to Make a Home Fire Escape Plan: A Step-by-Step Guide for DeBary Families URL: https://debaryvfa.org/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/ Published: 2026-08-04 · Updated: 2026-08-04 A home fire can turn deadly faster than most people imagine. The American Red Cross warns that you may have as little as two minutes to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds, and the U.S. Fire Administration says it may be less. In that short window, there is no time to figure out a plan. The families who get out are the ones who have already decided how. Here is a practical, step-by-step guide to building and practicing a home fire escape plan for your DeBary household. ## Why every household needs a written plan Fire is still a serious threat in American homes. According to the National Volunteer Fire Council's 2026 fact sheet, which draws on NFPA data, there were 3,920 civilian fire deaths in the United States in 2024, and 75 percent of them happened in homes. Homes also burn differently than they used to. UL's Fire Safety Research Institute notes that modern furnishings, open floor plans and newer building materials let fire spread and become toxic faster, which, in its words, "all leads to less time to get out of the home." An escape plan turns panic into a routine. When the alarm sounds at 3 a.m., children and adults who have practiced will move toward the exit instead of hiding, searching for belongings or waiting for someone to tell them what to do. ## Step 1: Draw a map of your home NFPA recommends starting with a simple floor plan. Grab a sheet of graph paper (or the back of a pizza box, it does not need to be pretty) and sit down with everyone who lives in the house. - Draw every room, including bedrooms, bathrooms, the garage and any Florida room or enclosed lanai. - Mark every door and window. - Mark the location of every smoke alarm. If a bedroom has no alarm, you have found your first project. - Draw arrows showing two ways out of every room. - Mark your outside meeting place. - Post the finished map where everyone, including guests and babysitters, can see it. Children are often the best mapmakers. Letting them draw the plan helps them remember it. ## Step 2: Find two ways out of every room The main exit from most rooms is the door. The second way out is usually a window. Walk through your home and check each one. ### Check every escape window - Make sure windows open easily and are not painted or nailed shut. - Know how to remove or push out screens quickly. - Keep furniture, boxes and clutter away from windows so a child can reach them. - For a two-story home, consider an escape ladder designed for that purpose. Store it near the window and learn how to set it up, practicing from a ground-floor window first. ### Check every door - Keep hallways and paths to exits clear. - If you use deadbolts that need a key from the inside, keep a key right next to the door. Better yet, choose locks that open from the inside without a key. - Sliding glass doors with security bars or broom-handle locks should be easy for every family member to open. ## Step 3: Plan around Florida-specific obstacles Many homes in DeBary and across West Volusia have features that protect against storms and burglars but can slow an escape from fire. Think about these before you need them. ### Hurricane shutters and storm panels When shutters or panels go up for a storm, your escape windows may be blocked for days, and that is exactly when families are running generators, candles and extra extension cords. During hurricane season, try to leave at least one window in each sleeping area operable from the inside, or use shutters that can be opened from inside. If that is not possible, make sure every bedroom still has a clear path to a door, and walk through your plan again each time shutters go up. Our [hurricane season fire and carbon monoxide safety guide](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/) covers the other fire risks that come with storm season. ### Security bars Windows and doors with security bars must have quick-release devices that open from the inside, so you can get out fast in an emergency. Test them and make sure every family member, including older children, can work the release. ### Impact windows Impact-rated glass is designed not to break, so do not plan to break it in an emergency. If an impact window is a planned exit, make sure it opens fully and that everyone knows how to operate it. Warning: A window that cannot be opened from the inside is not an exit. If your only second way out of a bedroom is blocked by bars, panels or fixed glass, fix it now rather than after a fire. ## Step 4: Pick an outside meeting place Choose a spot a safe distance from the house where everyone will gather. The Red Cross suggests something specific and easy to remember, such as a neighbor's house, the mailbox or a particular tree. Once you are out: - Go straight to the meeting place. This is how you will know everyone is out. - Call 911 from outside, using a cell phone or a neighbor's phone. - Never go back inside for anyone or anything. If someone is missing, tell the firefighters immediately where that person is likely to be. They have the gear and training to search. Also make sure the fire department can find you. Large, clearly visible house numbers on the house and mailbox help crews from Station 33 and Station 39 reach your door quickly, especially at night. ## Step 5: Close before you doze One of the simplest steps in fire safety is also one of the most powerful: sleep with bedroom doors closed. UL's Fire Safety Research Institute tested what a closed door does during a fire. In its experiments, closed-door bedrooms stayed below about 100 degrees Fahrenheit, while open-door rooms reached more than 1,000 degrees. Carbon monoxide levels told a similar story: around 10,000 parts per million in the open-door bedroom compared with about 100 parts per million behind the closed door. FSRI recommends closing children's bedroom doors at night as well, and closing as many doors as you can behind you as you escape. Because closed doors can make alarms harder to hear, interconnected smoke alarms, which all sound when one does, are especially important. Read our guide to [smoke alarm placement, testing and replacement](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/) for details. ## Step 6: Plan for everyone in the household ### Young children Teach children what the smoke alarm sounds like and what to do when they hear it. Practice getting low under smoke, feeling a door with the back of the hand before opening it, and going straight to the meeting place. Make sure they know never to hide under a bed or in a closet. Assign an adult to help each infant or toddler, and plan a backup if that adult cannot reach them. ### Older adults and people with limited mobility - If possible, sleep in a bedroom on the ground floor, close to an exit. - Keep eyeglasses, a phone, a flashlight, hearing aids and any walker or cane next to the bed. - If someone uses a wheelchair, make sure doorways and paths to exits are wide and clear. - Ask a family member or neighbor to be part of the plan, and decide in advance who will help whom. ### People who are deaf or hard of hearing Standard alarms may not wake someone with hearing loss. Alarms with strobe lights and bed or pillow shakers are available and should be part of the plan. Make sure everyone knows how that person will be alerted. ### Pets Include pets in your plan, but never put a person at risk to save one. Keep leashes and carriers near an exit, and if a pet is still inside when you get out, tell firefighters right away. ### Guests and grandchildren Visitors do not know your home's exits. When family or friends stay over, take two minutes to show them the escape map and the meeting place. ## Step 7: Practice twice a year, day and night A plan only works if people remember it under stress. Fire safety officials recommend practicing your home fire drill twice a year, with one drill during the day and one at night, and using different exits so everyone learns the second way out. Drill checkpointWhat to look for Alarm responseDid everyone wake up and move? Did children respond on their own? Second exitsCould everyone open their escape window, screen and any security bars? Getting lowDid people crawl low under imagined smoke and check doors before opening them? DoorsDid people close doors behind them on the way out? Meeting placeDid everyone go straight there and stay put? TimeHow long did it take? Aim to have everyone out in two minutes or less. Good times to practice are the start of hurricane season in June, during Fire Prevention Week in October, and whenever you change the time on your clocks. ### If you are trapped If smoke or fire blocks both exits, close the door between you and the fire. Stuff towels or clothing around the door to keep smoke out. Call 911 and tell the dispatcher exactly where you are. Signal from the window with a flashlight or a light-colored cloth. Do not open windows and doors just to clear smoke, since FSRI notes that incoming air can feed the fire, but do open a window to signal or to escape. ### Your escape plan checklist - Floor plan drawn, with two ways out of every room - Smoke alarms inside each bedroom, outside each sleeping area and on every level - Smoke alarms tested within the last month - Windows open easily, screens come off quickly, security bars have quick releases - A plan for when hurricane shutters are up - Outside meeting place chosen and known by everyone - Helpers assigned for children, older adults and anyone with a disability - House numbers visible from the street, day and night - Bedroom doors closed at night - Drills held twice a year, day and night For a printable, room-by-room review of your home, try our [interactive fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/), and browse more resources on our [safety page](/safety/). ## Sources and further reading - [NFPA: Escape Planning](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/escape-planning) - [U.S. Fire Administration: Smoke Alarms and Escape Time](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/prepare-for-fire/smoke-alarms/) - [American Red Cross: Two Minutes May Be All You Have to Escape a Home Fire](https://www.redcross.org/about-us/news-and-events/press-release/2022/two-minutes-may-be-all-you-have-to-escape-a-home-fire.html) - [UL Fire Safety Research Institute: Close Before You Doze](https://fsri.org/programs/close-you-doze) - [West Virginia State Fire Marshal: Every Second Counts, Plan Two Ways Out](https://firemarshal.wv.gov/News/Pages/Fire-Prevention-Week-2017.aspx) - [National Volunteer Fire Council: Volunteer Fire Service Fact Sheet (2026)](https://www.nvfc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/volunteer-fire-service-fact-sheet.pdf) Fire safety starts at home and grows stronger with neighbors who help. Learn how you can [volunteer with the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/volunteer/) and help us support the firefighters who protect our community. ## FAQ Q: How often should we practice our home fire escape plan? A: Practice your home fire drill at least twice a year, once during the day and once at night, and use different exits so everyone knows the second way out. Q: How much time do you have to escape a home fire? A: Fire experts with the American Red Cross and the U.S. Fire Administration warn that you may have as little as two minutes, or even less, to get out safely once the smoke alarm sounds. Q: Should we sleep with bedroom doors closed? A: Yes. UL's Fire Safety Research Institute found that rooms with closed doors stayed below about 100 degrees Fahrenheit during fire tests, while rooms with open doors could exceed 1,000 degrees. Q: What if my windows have hurricane shutters or security bars? A: Security bars on bedroom windows need quick-release devices that open from the inside. With storm shutters, leave at least one escape window in each sleeping area operable whenever possible, and update your plan whenever shutters go up. Q: Should I go back inside for a pet? A: No. Never go back into a burning home. Tell the firefighters right away that a pet is inside and where it is likely to be. --- # Firefighter Rehab: Why Hydration, Rest and Cooling Save Lives on the Fireground URL: https://debaryvfa.org/firefighter-rehab-hydration-saves-lives/ Published: 2026-07-14 · Updated: 2026-07-14 When a fire, a long search or a multi-day brush fire stretches on for hours, the biggest threat to firefighters is often not the flames in front of them. It is the heat building up inside their own bodies. Firefighter rehab, the organized break for rest, fluids, food, cooling and a medical check, is how fire crews stay safe enough to keep working. In DeBary, rehab is also where your neighbors in the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team come in. ## What "rehab" means on the fireground In the fire service, "rehab" is short for rehabilitation. It is not a treatment program and it is not a reward for a job well done. It is a planned part of every significant incident. FEMA's Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) training describes rehab as "the process of providing rest, rehydration, nourishment, and medical evaluation" to responders involved in extended or extreme operations. The goal is simple: catch fatigue, dehydration and heat stress before they turn into a mistake, an injury, or a medical emergency. The national consensus standard that fire departments use to build their rehab procedures is NFPA 1584, the Standard on the Rehabilitation Process for Members During Emergency Operations and Training Exercises. NFPA's own fact sheet stresses that rehab "should be an integral part of both incident scene management and an occupational safety and health program." In other words, it is planned in advance, not improvised when someone collapses. ### When firefighters go to rehab Rehab guidance ties rest breaks to how hard and how long firefighters have been working. Summarizing NFPA 1584, FEMA's CERT rehab materials describe two levels: - Self-rehab: at least 10 minutes of rest with hydration after using one 30-minute air cylinder (SCBA), or after 20 minutes of intense work without one. - Formal rehab: a medical evaluation, fluids and at least 20 minutes of rest after two 30-minute cylinders, one 45- or 60-minute cylinder, work in encapsulating chemical protective clothing, or 40 minutes of intense work without SCBA. Company officers are also expected to keep an eye on their crews throughout an incident. NFPA's fact sheet calls for officers to assess crews at least every 45 minutes, and more often in extreme conditions. ## Why heat is the hidden danger, especially in Central Florida Modern turnout gear is built to keep fire and heat out. The trade-off is that it also keeps the firefighter's own body heat in. The U.S. Fire Administration's rehab guide explains that protective equipment "inhibits the transfer of heat between the firefighter and the external environment," and that gear with moisture barriers limits sweat evaporation, which is one of the body's main ways to cool down. Now put that gear on a firefighter in West Volusia in July. Central Florida summers bring long stretches of heat and high humidity, and humid air makes it even harder for sweat to evaporate. CDC's National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health lists high temperature and humidity, heavy physical work, and protective clothing among the risk factors for heat-related illness, a group of conditions that includes heat cramps, heat exhaustion, rhabdomyolysis and heat stroke. Heat stroke is a life-threatening emergency. The strain is not only about heat. Firefighting puts enormous demands on the heart. According to the National Volunteer Fire Council's 2026 fact sheet, which draws on NFPA data, 72 firefighters died in the line of duty in the United States in 2024, and stress or overexertion was the leading cause, accounting for 42 of those deaths. Rest, cooling, fluids and medical monitoring are exactly the tools designed to reduce that kind of risk. Warning signs rehab teams watch for: chest pain, dizziness, shortness of breath, weakness, nausea, headache, changes in speech, gait or behavior, and confusion. NFPA guidance says EMS should be alerted for any of these. If you ever see someone showing these signs in the heat, call 911. ## The building blocks of good rehab Every department writes its own procedures, but rehab areas are built around the same basic needs. ### Hydration Fluids should be available at all times, and water should always be offered. FEMA's CERT guidance adds that after the first hour of firefighting, crews should be offered a sports drink with electrolytes to help replace what they have lost through sweat. Cool or iced drinks also help bring body temperature down. ### Nourishment Long incidents burn a lot of energy. Rehab guidance calls for appropriate food to be available and for firefighters to be encouraged to eat during extended operations. Simple, quick, easy-to-handle snacks matter here because crews may only have a few minutes before they go back to work. ### Rest Rest is the part people forget. CERT materials note that firefighters need to rest in the rehab area for at least 10 to 20 minutes, preferably sitting down. A shaded tent or an air-conditioned space makes that rest far more effective in summer. ### Cooling Rehab uses two kinds of cooling. Passive cooling means removing gear, sitting in the shade and drinking cool fluids. Active cooling uses outside help, such as misting fans, wet towels on the head and neck, ice vests, or submerging the hands and forearms in cool water. NFPA's fact sheet lists hand and forearm immersion, misting fans and ice vests as examples of active cooling. ### Medical monitoring Under NFPA 1584, firefighters entering rehab have vital signs checked, including temperature, heart rate, breathing rate, blood pressure and pulse oximetry. The 2015 edition also added carbon monoxide monitoring for members who have been involved in firefighting. This part of rehab is always handled by trained EMS personnel from the fire department, not by support volunteers. ## Where Support 33 fits in The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team is not a fire department. Fire protection in DeBary is provided through the City's contract with the Orange City Fire Department, which staffs Stations 33 and 39. Our role is to support those firefighters, and the most visible way we do that is [Support 33](/the-new-support-33/). Support 33 is a former Clay County ambulance that was donated to the association and placed in service in early 2022. It was converted into a rehab and support unit that can bring the basics of a rehab area to an incident: cases of water and sports drinks, snacks, ice, fans, tents for shade, generators, and an air-conditioned space where crews can cool down. The unit also carries clothing for residents who have been displaced by a fire. If you are curious how a unit like this works at an incident, our explainer on [what a support unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/) walks through it step by step. Rehab needHow Support 33 helpsHow residents can help HydrationBottled water and sports drinks, kept coldDonate sealed cases of water or electrolyte drinks CoolingIce, fans, shade tents, air-conditioned spaceSupport the fuel, ice and equipment budget NourishmentIndividually wrapped snacksDonate shelf-stable, individually wrapped snacks RestA place to sit out of the sunVolunteer to help set up and staff the unit Medical monitoringHandled by fire department EMS, not by volunteersGive crews space to work ### A local example: the 2019 Dutchman's Bend brush fire DeBary saw how much rehab matters in June 2019, when a lightning-sparked brush fire near Dutchman's Bend Road burned for days. News 13 reported that the fire grew to more than 100 acres, threatened a Duke Energy power plant and damaged nearby railroad tracks, with the Florida Forest Service leading the response. During that multi-day fire, DeBary residents stepped up and donated water, food and ice for the crews. That kind of neighbor-to-neighbor support is exactly what keeps a rehab operation stocked when an incident drags on. ## How DeBary residents can help You do not need to be a firefighter to make a difference on the fireground. Here are the most useful ways to support rehab in our community. ### Donate the right supplies Please reach out before dropping anything off, so we can tell you what is needed and where to bring it. Email [firesupport@debaryvfa.org](mailto:firesupport@debaryvfa.org) or call 386-801-2469 (non-emergency). Items that are almost always useful: - Sealed cases of bottled water - Sports drinks or electrolyte drink mixes in sealed packaging - Individually wrapped, shelf-stable snacks such as granola bars, crackers, trail mix and peanut butter crackers (labeled packaging helps crews with food allergies) - Small coolers, reusable ice packs and cooling towels - Gift cards from local stores to help buy ice and perishables quickly when a long incident starts Tip: Commercially packaged, sealed items are best. For food safety reasons, homemade food and opened packages generally cannot be served to crews. ### Support the unit financially Keeping a rehab unit ready costs money: fuel, maintenance, insurance, ice, generator upkeep and restocking supplies after every call. Financial gifts through our [support page](/support/), attending a [pancake breakfast](/fundraisers/), or buying a 70th-anniversary challenge coin all help keep Support 33 stocked and on the road. Please remember that the association never fundraises door to door. If someone comes to your door claiming to collect for us, it is not us. ### Volunteer Support 33 runs on volunteers who help load supplies, set up shade and fans, hand out drinks, and keep the unit maintained between calls. No firefighting certification is required for support work. If you have a few hours a month to give, visit our [volunteer page](/volunteer/) or ask us about joining a Wednesday drill night. ## What not to do at an active scene The urge to help is a wonderful thing, but good intentions can create problems at an emergency. Rehab works because it is organized and coordinated with the people in charge of the incident. FEMA's CERT guidance makes the same point for its own trained volunteers, who never self-deploy and are mobilized by incident command. - Do not drive to an active fire or emergency scene with supplies unless officials or the association have asked for them. Extra vehicles can block fire apparatus and roads. - Stay well back and follow directions from firefighters and law enforcement. - Pull over to the right and stop for emergency vehicles with lights and sirens. - Call 911 if you see fire, smoke, or someone in distress. Never assume someone else has already called. ## Beat the heat yourself The same principles that protect firefighters also protect you while you are doing yard work, helping a neighbor after a storm, or volunteering at an outdoor event. Drink water before you are thirsty, take breaks in the shade, work during the cooler parts of the day, and watch for the warning signs of heat illness in yourself and others. If someone becomes confused, stops sweating, or collapses in the heat, call 911 right away and start cooling them while you wait. Want to protect your own household from fire as well? Our [interactive fire safety checklist](/fire-safety-checklist/) is a quick place to start. ## Sources and further reading - [FEMA / Ready.gov CERT: Firefighter Rehabilitation](https://www.ready.gov/sites/default/files/2020-08/cert_firefighterrehab.pdf) - [U.S. Fire Administration: Emergency Incident Rehabilitation (FA-314)](https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_314.pdf) - [NFPA 1584 Fact Sheet: Rehabilitation Process for Members During Emergency Operations](https://www.iavoad.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/NFPA1584-FactSheet.pdf) - [Firehouse: Important Updates to NFPA 1584](https://firehouse.com/ems/article/12061831/fire-service-ems) - [CDC / NIOSH: Heat Stress and Workers](https://www.cdc.gov/niosh/heat-stress/about/index.html) - [National Volunteer Fire Council: Volunteer Fire Service Fact Sheet (2026)](https://www.nvfc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/volunteer-fire-service-fact-sheet.pdf) - [News 13: DeBary brush fire threatening power plant, railroad (June 2019)](https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2019/06/02/officials--debary-brush-fire-threatening-power-plant--railroad) Help keep Support 33 stocked with water, ice and snacks for the firefighters who protect DeBary. [Support the team](/support/) or [become a volunteer](/volunteer/) today. Contributions or gifts to the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association, Inc. are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. ## FAQ Q: What is firefighter rehab? A: Rehab is the organized process of giving firefighters rest, rehydration, nourishment, cooling and medical evaluation during long or extreme incidents, so they can recover before fatigue or heat stress leads to injury. Q: Why is heat so dangerous for firefighters in Florida? A: Turnout gear traps body heat and limits sweat evaporation, which is one of the main ways the body cools itself. Add Central Florida's summer heat and humidity, and a firefighter can overheat quickly even after a short period of hard work. Q: What does Support 33 do? A: Support 33 is the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team's rehab unit, a donated former Clay County ambulance in service since early 2022. It carries water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, fans, tents, generators and shade so firefighters can recover on scene. Q: Can I drop off water or snacks for firefighters? A: Yes, and it is appreciated, but please contact the association first at firesupport@debaryvfa.org or 386-801-2469 (non-emergency) so supplies go where they are needed. Please do not bring items to an active emergency scene unless officials ask for them. Q: Are donations to the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team tax-deductible? A: No. The association is a 501(c)(4) social welfare organization, so contributions are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. --- # From Bucket Brigades to DeBary: A History of America’s Volunteer Fire Service URL: https://debaryvfa.org/history-of-volunteer-fire-service/ Published: 2026-06-23 · Updated: 2026-06-23 Every June 23, the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association marks another year since a group of neighbors decided their town would not wait for someone else to protect it. That decision, made in 1953, belongs to a much older American tradition. Long before there were paid fire departments, 911 or fire hydrants on every corner, ordinary people organized themselves to answer the fire bell. Today, volunteers still make up most of the nation's firefighters. Here is how that tradition began, how it changed, and how DeBary's own story fits into it. ## Fire in the colonial town For early American towns, fire was one of the most feared disasters. Homes and shops were built of wood, heated with open fires and lit by candles, and packed close together. A single chimney fire could spread to an entire street. There were no professional firefighters. When fire broke out, neighbors turned out with whatever they had, often forming lines to pass buckets of water hand to hand from a well or river to the flames. These "bucket brigades" depended entirely on people being willing to drop what they were doing and help. Bucket brigades were brave, but they were often disorganized. Who would bring the buckets? Who would protect a family's belongings from looters? Who would make sure it did not happen again? Answering those questions led to the first organized volunteer fire companies. ## Benjamin Franklin and the Union Fire Company In February 1735, an anonymous letter appeared in Benjamin Franklin's newspaper, The Pennsylvania Gazette, under the heading "Protection of Towns from Fire." Its author was Franklin himself, and it contained a line Americans still repeat: "an Ounce of Prevention is worth a Pound of Cure." Franklin was writing about fire, urging Philadelphians to carry hot coals safely and to keep chimneys clean. The following year, on December 7, 1736, Franklin and others organized the Union Fire Company. According to the history compiled by the Independence Hall Association, thirty men agreed to the company's rules. Each member kept leather buckets and strong bags and baskets, used to carry water and to pack and rescue a neighbor's goods, and brought them to every fire. The company met monthly to talk about fire prevention and better ways of fighting fires. The idea caught on. Other Philadelphia companies followed, including the Heart-in-Hand, the Britannia and the Fellowship, and the model of neighbors banding together under shared rules spread through the colonies and, later, the young nation. Two ideas from Franklin's company still define the fire service: show up when you are needed, and work just as hard to prevent fires as to fight them. ## The age of the volunteer company Through the late 1700s and much of the 1800s, volunteer fire companies were a central part of American town life. Membership was a mark of civic pride. Companies bought hand-pumped engines and hose, built firehouses that doubled as social halls, held parades and competitions, and raised money from their communities to keep going. Many of the traditions firefighters still honor, from polished apparatus to the firehouse as a gathering place, trace back to this era. ### Steam changes everything in the big cities Technology eventually changed the picture in the largest cities. In Cincinnati, Abel Shawk, Alexander Bonner Latta and Miles Greenwood built a practical steam fire engine that could start pumping water from a water source in about 10 minutes. The city received its first steam engine on January 1, 1853, and on April 1, 1853, Cincinnati established what it describes as the first professional, fully paid fire department in the United States. By 1863 the city had replaced all of its hand-operated engines with steamers. Other large cities followed with paid departments over the following decades. But in small towns, rural counties and growing suburbs, volunteers remained the backbone of fire protection, and that has never stopped being true. ### Many models, one mission Today's fire service is a patchwork shaped by each community's size, budget and history. Some departments are entirely volunteer, some are entirely career, and many are "combination" departments in which paid and volunteer firefighters work side by side. Other communities, like DeBary, contract with a neighboring city for professional service while residents continue to serve in support roles. The structure varies from town to town, but the core idea Franklin's company put on paper in 1736 is the same everywhere: neighbors committing ahead of time to show up for one another when fire strikes. ## The volunteer fire service today It surprises many people to learn that most American firefighters are still volunteers. The National Volunteer Fire Council's 2026 fact sheet, citing National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) data, reports: MeasureFigure Total U.S. firefightersAbout 1,018,100 Volunteer firefightersAbout 635,100 (62%) Fire departments in the U.S.29,452 All-volunteer departments18,873 Mostly volunteer departments5,335 Estimated annual savings to localities from volunteersAbout $46.9 billion The job has also grown. The NVFC notes that call volume has more than tripled over the last 40 years, as fire departments have taken on emergency medical calls, rescues, hazardous materials and disaster response on top of firefighting. The work remains dangerous: in 2024, 72 firefighters died in the line of duty, 32 of them volunteers, and stress or overexertion was the leading cause, accounting for 42 deaths. That last figure is one reason on-scene rehab, the rest, hydration and cooling that support teams like ours provide, matters so much. You can read more in our article on [why firefighter rehab and hydration save lives](/firefighter-rehab-hydration-saves-lives/). ## DeBary's story begins: 1952–1955 DeBary's chapter of this history started the same way Franklin's did, with neighbors deciding to act. In October 1952, residents met to talk about the community's lack of fire protection, and within two weeks they decided to form a volunteer fire company. On June 23, 1953, the legal papers were returned and the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association was formed, with Ed Healy as its first fire chief. - October 1953: The volunteers answer their first call, a brush fire, a fitting start in a part of Florida where brush fires remain a fact of life. - May 1954: The association acquires its first engine, a 1943 Chevrolet combination pumper-tanker from Leesburg. - February 13, 1955: DeBary's first firehouse is dedicated at 10 Colomba Road. The building still serves as the association's hall. - March 1962: The Firemen's Recreation Hall is dedicated. Today it is Florence K. Little Hall, home of our pancake breakfasts. - 1974: A new metal firehouse, Station 14, is built beside the original to house more vehicles, offices and crew quarters. ## From volunteer fire company to fire support team Like many volunteer departments in growing communities, DeBary's fire service changed as the town grew. - December 1983: 911 service comes to DeBary. - 1984: The department comes under Volusia County Fire Services, which brings the first full-time firefighters. The station is redesignated Station 33, and the volunteers' Support Team is born to back up the firefighters on scene. - 1989: The Mutual Aid Support Team (MAST) is founded. - 2009: The City of DeBary contracts with the Orange City Fire Department for fire and rescue service. - 2015: The city purchases a new Pierce Engine 33 with a 1,250-gallon-per-minute pump and a 750-gallon tank. - July 2017: A new Station 33 opens, the third firehouse in DeBary's history. - 2019: During the multi-day Dutchman's Bend brush fire, residents donate water, food and ice for the firefighters, a reminder of how much a community's support matters. - 2021–2022: A former Clay County ambulance is donated and equipped as [the new Support 33](/the-new-support-33/), in service in early 2022. - 2023: The association celebrates its 70th anniversary with a commemorative [challenge coin](/coins/). - January 2026: DeBary opens its second fire station, Station 39. Through all of those changes, the volunteers never went away; their role evolved. Today the association, doing business as the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team, supports the professional firefighters who serve DeBary rather than acting as the fire department itself. Members give roughly 2,000 volunteer hours a year, and more than 1,500 men and women have served since 1953. The full timeline is on our [history page](/history/). ## Why volunteers still matter Franklin's company carried buckets and bags. DeBary's support members carry coolers of water and sports drinks, ice, tents, fans and generators, and clothing for families who have just lost their homes. The tools have changed, but the idea is the same: a fire is a community emergency, and the community can help. - On scene: Rehab keeps firefighters hydrated, cooled and rested during long incidents in the Florida heat, so they can work safely. - For displaced residents: Volunteers provide shade, water and immediate comfort when a family is standing in the street watching their home burn. - In the community: Fundraisers like pancake breakfasts and the challenge coin buy equipment and supplies for the fire department, and members share fire prevention messages Franklin would recognize. - As reserves: Florida-certified firefighter/EMTs can apply through a selection process to ride shifts alongside full-time crews. ## Carry the tradition forward Nearly three centuries after thirty Philadelphians promised to bring their buckets to every fire, the volunteer spirit is still what holds many American fire services together. In DeBary, it is why a 1955 firehouse still stands on Colomba Road and why a converted ambulance rolls out to support firefighters on hot summer nights. If you have ever wondered how you could be part of that story, there is a place for you, whether you can give a few hours at a pancake breakfast or train to work on an emergency scene. Learn more [about us](/about-us/) and how our members serve today. ## Sources and further reading - [Independence Hall Association (ushistory.org): Benjamin Franklin and fire protection in Philadelphia](https://ushistory.org/franklin/philadelphia/fire.htm) - [Cincinnati Fire Department: Fire department history](https://www.cincinnati-oh.gov/fire/about-fire/history/) - [National Volunteer Fire Council: Volunteer fire service fact sheet (2026)](https://www.nvfc.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/02/volunteer-fire-service-fact-sheet.pdf) - [National Volunteer Fire Council](https://www.nvfc.org/) Be part of DeBary's next chapter. [Volunteer with the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/volunteer/) as an association member, support member or reserve firefighter, and help carry a tradition that started with neighbors helping neighbors. ## FAQ Q: Who started the first volunteer fire company in America? A: Benjamin Franklin is widely credited with organizing Philadelphia's Union Fire Company on December 7, 1736. Thirty men agreed to bring leather buckets, bags and baskets to every fire and to meet monthly to discuss fire prevention. Q: What percentage of US firefighters are volunteers today? A: According to the National Volunteer Fire Council, citing NFPA data, about 635,100 of the nation's roughly 1,018,100 firefighters are volunteers, or about 62 percent. Q: When was the first paid fire department in the United States? A: Cincinnati established what it describes as the first professional, fully paid fire department in the United States on April 1, 1853, after adopting a practical steam fire engine. Q: When was the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association founded? A: DeBary residents first met about the lack of fire protection in October 1952, and the association's legal papers were returned on June 23, 1953. It answered its first call, a brush fire, in October 1953. Q: Does DeBary still have volunteer firefighters? A: Fire service in DeBary has been provided by contract with the Orange City Fire Department since 2009. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team continues the volunteer tradition by supporting those firefighters with rehab, fundraising and community education, and certified firefighter/EMTs can apply to serve as reserves. --- # Hurricane Season Fire and Carbon Monoxide Safety: Generators, Candles, Fuel and Downed Lines URL: https://debaryvfa.org/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/ Published: 2026-06-02 · Updated: 2026-06-02 The Atlantic hurricane season runs from June 1 through November 30, and every Central Florida resident knows the routine: water, batteries, shutters and gas cans. But the most dangerous part of a storm often comes after it passes. When the power is out for days, households turn to portable generators, candles, grills and stored fuel, and that is when fires and carbon monoxide poisonings rise. This guide focuses on the fire and CO risks DeBary families face during hurricane season, and how to avoid them. ## Why carbon monoxide is the hidden storm danger Carbon monoxide (CO) is a colorless, odorless gas produced whenever fuel burns. You cannot see it or smell it, and at high levels it can kill in minutes. CDC reports that more than 400 Americans die every year from unintentional CO poisoning not linked to fires, more than 100,000 visit an emergency department, and more than 14,000 are hospitalized. Portable generators are the biggest single culprit among engine-powered tools. A U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission report found that portable generators were linked to 800 of 931 non-fire CO deaths associated with engine-driven tools from 1999 through 2012, more than 85 percent. CPSC also found that a CO alarm was present in only about 8 percent of those engine-driven tool death cases. The pattern after hurricanes is well documented. After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, a CDC investigation in Alabama and Texas found that a portable generator was involved in 25 of the 27 CO poisoning incidents studied. Among households interviewed, generators that were outdoors averaged only about 3.2 feet from the home, often placed close to power a window air conditioner. In all four fatal incidents, the generator or a gas stove was inside the home or garage. In other words, "outside" is not enough. Distance matters. Know the symptoms: CDC lists headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion as common signs of CO poisoning, often mistaken for the flu. People who are asleep can die before they ever feel symptoms. If a CO alarm sounds or anyone feels sick, get everyone outside to fresh air immediately and call 911. ## Portable generator safety, the CPSC way A generator can keep your refrigerator, fans and medical equipment running after a storm. Used correctly, it is a lifesaver. Used carelessly, it is one of the deadliest appliances you can own. ### Placement - Run the generator outdoors only, at least 20 feet from the house. - Point the exhaust away from your home and your neighbors' homes. - Keep it away from windows, doors and vents, including soffit, dryer and bathroom exhaust vents. - Never run it inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, even with doors and windows open. - Do not run it on a porch, in a carport or inside a screened lanai, all of which can trap exhaust next to the house. ### Choosing a safer generator If you are buying a new generator before the season, CPSC recommends looking for a model with a CO shut-off safety feature and certification to the PGMA G300 standard (2018 or 2023 edition) or UL 2201. CPSC notes that UL 2201 models are designed to emit less carbon monoxide. ### Wet weather and electrical safety Generators and rain are a shock hazard. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for operating in wet conditions, which may mean using a purpose-built generator cover or waiting until the rain stops. Use heavy-duty, grounded (three-prong) extension cords rated for the load, and never use frayed or damaged cords, according to OSHA. ### Never backfeed your home Plugging a generator into a wall outlet, sometimes called backfeeding, sends power back through your home's wiring and out onto utility lines. OSHA warns never to attach a generator directly to a building's electrical system unless a qualified electrician has installed it with a transfer switch. Backfeeding can electrocute utility line workers trying to restore power, injure neighbors, and start fires in your own home. ## Store and handle fuel safely Before a storm, many families fill several gas cans. That fuel is a serious fire hazard if it is stored or handled carelessly. - Use approved containers. OSHA recommends fuel be kept in approved, properly labeled containers. - Store it away from living areas and away from anything that produces heat or flame, including the generator itself, water heaters, dryers and grills. - Refuel only when the engine is off and cool. OSHA warns that fuel spilled on hot engine parts can ignite. - Keep fuel and generators away from children and pets. - Do not overfill, and wipe up spills before restarting the engine. - Keep a fire extinguisher handy where you refuel, and know how to use it. ## Candles, lighting, charging and cooking during outages When the lights go out, candles come out, and candle fires follow. CPSC recommends using flashlights or battery-operated candles instead of real flame. If you do use candles: - Never leave a burning candle unattended, and blow it out before leaving the room or going to sleep. - Keep candles away from curtains, bedding, paper and anything else that can burn. - Use sturdy holders on a stable surface, out of reach of children and pets. Power banks, cordless tool batteries and e-bike batteries also see heavy use after storms. Charge them on hard surfaces, away from beds and couches, and stop using any battery that is swollen, hot or damaged. Our guide to [lithium-ion battery safe charging](/lithium-ion-battery-safe-charging/) has more detail. ### Cooking without power Grills and camp stoves are a natural backup when the electric range is out, but they are fuel-burning appliances that produce CO. - Never use a charcoal grill indoors. CPSC warns that burning charcoal in an enclosed space can produce lethal levels of CO. - Do not cook on a charcoal grill in the garage, even with the garage door open. - Keep grills well away from the house, siding, eaves and screen enclosures. - Never leave a grill unattended, and let coals cool completely before disposing of them in a metal container. ## Install and test CO and smoke alarms before the storm CPSC recommends battery-operated or battery-backup smoke alarms and CO alarms on every level of your home and outside sleeping areas, ideally interconnected so that when one sounds, they all sound. Battery backup is essential, since hardwired alarms without it stop working when the power goes out. - Test every smoke and CO alarm at the start of hurricane season. - Replace batteries in any alarm that uses replaceable batteries. - Check manufacture dates: smoke alarms should be replaced 10 years after their manufacture date, and CDC suggests replacing CO detectors per the manufacturer's instructions or about every five years. - Keep spare batteries in your hurricane kit. - Never ignore an alarm. Get outside first, then call 911. Our full guide to [smoke alarm placement, testing and replacement](/smoke-alarms-placement-testing-replacement/) explains which types to buy and where to put them, including a replacement-date calculator in our fire safety checklist. ## After the storm: downed lines, flooding and power restoration ### Downed power lines Storms bring down trees and power lines across West Volusia. Duke Energy advises staying at least 30 feet away from a downed line and always assuming it is live, even if it is not sparking. Never drive over a downed line. If a line falls on your vehicle, stay inside and call 911, leaving only if there is an immediate danger such as fire. Report downed lines to your electric utility or call 911. ### Flooded homes and appliances Flooding brings its own fire and shock hazards. DeBary sits on Lake Monroe and the St. Johns River, and after Hurricane Ian in 2022 the river reached record levels near Sanford, across the lake, with flooding that receded slowly over weeks. CPSC advises: - Do not touch wet appliances that are still plugged in. - Have a professional or your utility inspect flooded appliances before using them. - Replace gas control valves, electrical wiring, circuit breakers and fuses that have been under water. ### When the power comes back Restoration can bring its own surprises. Before power returns, turn off or unplug appliances that were running when the outage hit, especially stoves, space heaters, irons and other heat-producing devices, so they do not switch back on while unattended. Once power is restored, shut down and disconnect your generator. If you smell burning, see sparks, or notice scorch marks around outlets, turn off power at the breaker if it is safe to do so and call 911. ## Build a hurricane kit with fire and CO safety in mind The Florida Department of Health recommends storing 3 to 7 days of supplies, including about one gallon of water per person per day. Along with the basics, add the items that keep you safe from fire and CO: CategoryWhat to pack Water and foodOne gallon of water per person per day for 3 to 7 days, non-perishable food, manual can opener Light and powerFlashlights, battery-operated lanterns or candles, extra batteries, charged power banks InformationBattery-powered or hand-crank NOAA weather radio Fire and CO safetyFire extinguisher, spare alarm batteries, a battery-powered CO alarm, approved fuel containers, heavy-duty grounded extension cords HealthFirst aid kit, prescriptions, glasses, hearing aid batteries DocumentsIDs, insurance papers and cash in a waterproof container PetsFood, water, carriers, leashes and records Also review your [home fire escape plan](/home-fire-escape-plan-guide/). When hurricane shutters are up, some escape windows may be blocked, so make sure every bedroom still has a way out. ## How the support team helps after storms Hurricanes mean long shifts for the firefighters who staff DeBary's Stations 33 and 39. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team's rehab unit, [Support 33](/the-new-support-33/), carries water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, fans, tents and generators to help crews recover during extended operations, along with clothing for residents displaced by fire. It is one more way our community looks after the people who look after us. ## Sources and further reading - [CPSC: Protect Your Family from CO Poisoning and Other Post-Storm Dangers](https://www.cpsc.gov/Newsroom/News-Releases/2025/Hurricane-Milton-Warning-Protect-Your-Family-from-CO-Poisoning-and-Other-Post-Storm-Dangers) - [CPSC: Portable Generators Hold Top Spot in Report on Carbon Monoxide Deaths](https://www.cpsc.gov/content/winter-warning-portable-generators-hold-top-spot-in-cpsc-report-on-carbon-monoxide-deaths) - [CDC: Carbon Monoxide Poisoning Basics](https://www.cdc.gov/carbon-monoxide/about/index.html) - [CDC MMWR: CO Poisonings After Hurricanes Katrina and Rita (2005)](https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/preview/mmwrhtml/mm5509a4.htm) - [OSHA: Using Portable Generators Safely](https://www.osha.gov/Publications/OSHA3286.pdf) - [Duke Energy: Safety Around Power Lines](https://www.duke-energy.com/resource-hub/residential/for-your-safety/safety-around-power-lines) - [Florida Department of Health: Build a Disaster Supply Kit](https://www.floridahealth.gov/preparedness-and-response/prepare-yourself/build-a-kit/index.html) - [FOX Weather: St. Johns River reaches record levels after Hurricane Ian](https://www.foxweather.com/weather-news/after-hurricane-ian-st-johns-river-in-florida-reaches-record-levels-causing-major-flooding) Help keep Support 33 ready for storm season. [Support the team](/support/) or [volunteer with us](/volunteer/). Contributions or gifts to the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association, Inc. are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. ## FAQ Q: How far from the house should a portable generator be? A: CPSC says to run portable generators outdoors only, at least 20 feet from the home, with the exhaust pointed away from the house and away from windows, doors and vents. Q: Can I run a generator in the garage with the door open? A: No. CPSC warns never to run a portable generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace or shed, even with doors or windows open, because carbon monoxide can still build up to deadly levels. Q: What are the symptoms of carbon monoxide poisoning? A: CDC lists headache, dizziness, weakness, upset stomach, vomiting, chest pain and confusion, symptoms often mistaken for the flu. If you suspect CO poisoning or a CO alarm sounds, get everyone outside to fresh air and call 911. Q: How far should I stay from a downed power line? A: Duke Energy advises staying at least 30 feet away and always assuming a downed line is live. Report it to your utility or call 911, and never drive over it. Q: Can I plug my generator into a wall outlet? A: No. Connecting a generator directly to household wiring, called backfeeding, can energize utility lines and endanger line workers and neighbors. Use a transfer switch installed by a qualified electrician, or plug appliances directly into the generator with heavy-duty grounded cords. --- # How to Volunteer in Fire and EMS in DeBary, Florida URL: https://debaryvfa.org/how-to-volunteer-fire-ems-debary-florida/ Published: 2026-04-14 · Updated: 2026-04-14 When a fire, crash or medical emergency happens in DeBary, the people you see on scene are professional firefighters from the Orange City Fire Department, which serves our city by contract. Behind them stands a group of residents who have been showing up for DeBary since 1953: the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team. Whether you want to help raise money for equipment, hand a cold bottle of water to a firefighter coming off a hose line, or train to ride on an engine yourself, there is a path for you. This guide explains each option, the Florida certifications involved, and exactly how to apply. ## Four ways to serve RoleWhat you doCertifications needed Association memberFundraising for fire department equipment, community events, preparedness and fire safety educationNone Support memberEverything association members do, plus firefighter rehab and comfort for displaced residents on incident scenesNone required; CPR is a plus Volunteer/reserve firefighterRide shift with full-time Orange City firefighters after a selection process run by the Fire ChiefFlorida-certified firefighter and Florida EMT Prepared residentLearn CPR, join a CERT team, or train as an EMT to help your family and neighborsVaries by program ## Association member: the backbone Association members keep the organization running. According to our membership guidelines, they help raise money to buy equipment for the fire department and take part in preparedness, community involvement and fire safety education. In practice that means serving pancakes at Florence K. Little Hall, helping with our annual mailer, selling challenge coins, staffing booths at community events, and sharing fire prevention messages with neighbors. This is a great fit if you have a busy schedule, are retired and want a meaningful way to give back, or simply want to get to know the people who look out for DeBary. Members meet on the second Wednesday of each month at 6:30 pm. Our [fundraisers page](/fundraisers/) shows the kinds of events members make possible. ## Support member: on scene, behind the line Support members do everything association members do, and they also assist firefighters and other EMS and rescue personnel on incident scenes. Their main job is rehab: making sure responders get water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, shade or air conditioning, and rest during long or hot incidents. They also provide immediate comfort to residents displaced by a fire, from a cool place to sit to a change of clothes. Support members work from our rehab unit, [Support 33](/the-new-support-33/), a donated former Clay County ambulance that went into service in early 2022. In Central Florida's heat and humidity, rehab is not a luxury. Heat stress and overexertion are serious risks for firefighters, and a well-run rehab sector helps crews work safely. Learn more about [what a support unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/). Support members train on Wednesday drill nights at 7 pm at the association hall at 10 Colomba Road, DeBary's original 1955 firehouse. ## Volunteer and reserve firefighters For those who want to work on the front line, Florida-certified firefighter/EMTs can go through a selection process administered by the Fire Chief. Reserve firefighters ride shift alongside full-time firefighters and commit to a set number of "on duty" hours on shift each month. Because fire service in DeBary is provided by the Orange City Fire Department, reserve applicants should expect the department's own standards and selection steps to apply. ### Florida's volunteer firefighter certificate Firefighter certification in Florida is governed by Chapter 633 of the Florida Statutes and administered by the Division of State Fire Marshal. Under s. 633.408, the division issues a Volunteer Firefighter Certificate of Completion to anyone who satisfactorily completes the state's volunteer course. According to the State Fire Marshal's volunteer firefighter program, the standard for a volunteer firefighter is completion of Part I of the State of Florida Minimum Standards Course. Florida's administrative rules set Part I at 191 hours of training, covering general knowledge, fire department communications, fireground operations, preparedness and maintenance, EMS requirements and Florida-specific requirements, ending with written and performance exams. The State Fire Marshal also offers a modular online pathway called "Grow as You Go," in which prospective volunteers complete modules until they earn the Volunteer Firefighter Certificate of Completion. Questions about volunteer certification can go to the State Volunteer Fire Coordinator through the division's volunteer firefighter page. ### The full firefighter certificate The career-level Firefighter Certificate of Compliance requires the complete Minimum Standards Course: Part I plus an additional 301 hours in Part II, for a total of 492 hours, with Part II completed at an approved fire training facility. Candidates must pass the state certification exam within 12 months of completing the course and meet the other qualifications in s. 633.412. Florida colleges and fire academies approved by the Bureau of Fire Standards and Training offer the course; in Central Florida, Valencia College is one provider of Firefighter Minimum Standards training. Good to know: Both the volunteer certificate and the Firefighter Certificate of Compliance expire four years after they are issued unless renewed under s. 633.414, Florida Statutes. Florida law also requires firefighter training to include cancer and mental health awareness, prevention, mitigation and treatment. Because DeBary's reserve program asks for both firefighter and Florida EMT certifications, check with us before you enroll in a course so you choose the path that fits the role you want. ## Becoming an EMT in Florida Most fire service calls are medical, so EMT certification is valuable for reserve firefighters and anyone considering a career in emergency services. The Florida Department of Health lays out the steps for Florida-trained applicants: - Complete an EMT course from a Florida Department of Health-approved training program. - Apply to the National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) and pass its exam within two years of finishing the program. - Hold a qualifying CPR card, such as an American Heart Association BLS for Healthcare Providers card or an American Red Cross CPR for the Professional Rescuer card. - Submit your application and fee to the Department of Health, including any required criminal history disclosures and court documents. Applicants who already hold current NREMT certification from another state follow a separate out-of-state process. Check the Department of Health's EMT licensing page for current fees and forms. ## CPR: the skill everyone should have You do not need to join anything to save a life. According to the American Heart Association, more than 350,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests occur in the United States each year, and about 73 percent of them happen at home. Performed immediately, CPR can double or triple a person's chance of survival. In those critical minutes before firefighters arrive, the person most likely to help is a family member or neighbor. CPR classes are widely offered through American Heart Association and American Red Cross training centers, hospitals and community organizations. If you already hold a CPR certification, include a copy with your DVFA application. ## Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) CERT is a nationwide program supported by FEMA that teaches residents basic disaster preparedness and response skills, such as fire safety and using a fire extinguisher, light search and rescue, team organization and disaster medical operations. CERT volunteers can help their families and neighbors in the hours after a hurricane or other disaster, when professional responders may be stretched thin. In Florida, CERT programs are coordinated with the help of Volunteer Florida, which lists a Volusia County CERT program among its Region 5 teams. Its online directory can connect you with the program manager. CERT training pairs well with association or support membership, especially during hurricane season. ## How to apply to the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team Because the Orange City Fire Department provides fire service to DeBary, every applicant submits two applications. Here is the process: - Download both applications from our [volunteer page](/volunteer/): the DVFA application and the Orange City application. - Attach a photocopy of the front of your driver license. - Attach copies of any certifications. Include your CPR card if you have one. Reserve firefighter applicants must include their certifications, such as firefighter and Florida EMT. - Submit your packet in one of three ways: - By mail to PO Box 530853, DeBary, FL 32753-0853 - By email, scanned as a PDF, to firesupport@debaryvfa.org - In person at 10 Colomba Road on a Wednesday drill night at 7 pm. Please do not drop applications off at the main firehouse. - Review and background check. The DVFA committee reviews your application, and the City of Orange City conducts the background check. - We will contact you after we receive your application. Tip: The best way to see if volunteering is right for you is to come by. Visit the hall on a Wednesday drill night, meet current members and ask questions. You can also reach us through our [contact page](/contact/) or at 386-801-2469 (non-emergency). ### Is volunteering right for you? Our members include retirees, working parents, students and longtime residents who remember when DeBary's fire department was all volunteer. Together they give about 2,000 volunteer hours a year, and more than 1,500 men and women have served since 1953. Before you apply, ask yourself: - Can I attend some meetings, drill nights or events each month? - Am I comfortable working outdoors in Florida heat, sometimes late at night? - Do I enjoy working as part of a team and following direction on a scene? - Am I willing to keep training and learning? - Do I want to help my neighbors on what may be the worst day of their lives? If you answered yes to most of these, you would fit right in. You will also be joining a tradition with deep roots; read our article on the [history of the volunteer fire service](/history-of-volunteer-fire-service/) to see where it all began. ## Sources and further reading - [Florida Division of State Fire Marshal: Florida volunteer firefighter information](https://myfloridacfo.com/division/sfm/volff) - [Florida Statutes s. 633.408: Firefighter and volunteer firefighter training and certification](https://m.flsenate.gov/Statutes/633.408) - [Florida Administrative Code 69A-37.055: Curriculum requirements for firefighter training](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/florida/Fla-Admin-Code-Ann-R-69A-37-055) - [Florida Department of Health: EMT and paramedic licensing](https://www.floridahealth.gov/licensing-and-regulation/emt-paramedics/licensing/index.html) - [American Heart Association: CPR facts and stats](https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats) - [Volunteer Florida: Find a Florida CERT program](https://www.volunteerflorida.org/find-a-florida-cert-program/) Ready to serve? Download the applications on our [volunteer page](/volunteer/) and bring them to 10 Colomba Road on any Wednesday at 7 pm. We would be glad to meet you. ## FAQ Q: Do I need firefighting experience to volunteer with the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team? A: No. Association members and support members do not need fire service certifications. They help with fundraising, community education and firefighter rehab on incident scenes. Reserve firefighters must be Florida-certified firefighter/EMTs. Q: What certification does a volunteer firefighter need in Florida? A: Florida's Division of State Fire Marshal issues a Volunteer Firefighter Certificate of Completion under s. 633.408, Florida Statutes, based on Part I of the state Minimum Standards Course (191 hours). Career firefighters need the Firefighter Certificate of Compliance, which requires the full 492-hour Minimum Standards Course and a state exam. Both certificates expire after four years unless renewed. Q: How do I apply to the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team? A: Complete both the DVFA application and the Orange City application, attach a photocopy of the front of your driver license and any certifications such as CPR, and mail, email or drop them off at 10 Colomba Road on a Wednesday drill night at 7 pm. The City of Orange City conducts the background check. Q: Why do I need to fill out an Orange City application to volunteer in DeBary? A: Fire service in DeBary is provided by the Orange City Fire Department under contract with the City of DeBary, so Orange City handles the background check for volunteers who work alongside its firefighters. Q: How do I become an EMT in Florida? A: Complete an EMT course from a Florida Department of Health-approved program, pass the National Registry (NREMT) exam within two years of finishing, hold a qualifying CPR card, and apply to the Department of Health for certification. --- # Brush Fire and Wildfire Preparedness for DeBary and Central Florida Homes URL: https://debaryvfa.org/brush-fire-wildfire-preparedness-central-florida/ Published: 2026-03-10 · Updated: 2026-03-10 Brush fire is part of DeBary's story. When the community's first volunteer fire company answered its very first call in October 1953, it was a brush fire. Seventy years later, the pine flatwoods, palmetto scrub and wetland edges that make West Volusia beautiful still carry fire, especially when the rain stops and the wind picks up. The good news is that there is a lot you can do to protect your home and family. This guide covers when the risk is highest, how to create defensible space, the rules for burning yard debris, Volusia County burn bans, and how to be ready if you need to leave. ## Understanding Central Florida's fire seasons Florida can see wildfires in any month, but the risk follows the weather. Florida's dry season runs roughly from October through May. As winter cold fronts bring dry air and gusty winds, grasses, leaves and pine needles dry out. By spring, months of limited rain have depleted moisture in vegetation and soil, and fire activity typically peaks in late spring into early summer, before the daily summer rains settle in. Then comes lightning season. Central Florida's summer thunderstorms bring frequent lightning, and early in the wet season, strikes can land on vegetation that is still parched from the spring. That is exactly what happened in DeBary in June 2019. ### A local lesson: the 2019 Dutchman's Bend fire On June 1, 2019, a brush fire started near Holladay Road and Dutchman's Bend Road in DeBary. News 13 reported that it was believed to have been started by lightning, and that strong winds later carried embers across Dutchman's Bend Road, helping the fire grow to more than 100 acres. The Florida Forest Service led the response. The fire threatened a Duke Energy power plant and damaged nearby railroad tracks, shutting down the rail line. It was a multi-day fire, and DeBary residents responded the way this community always has: by donating water, food and ice for the crews working in the heat. That support is a big part of why the association's rehab work matters. Learn more in our article on [firefighter rehab and hydration](/firefighter-rehab-hydration-saves-lives/). Notice the ember lesson: The Dutchman's Bend fire grew when wind carried embers across a road. Embers can travel well ahead of a fire and land on roofs, in gutters and in mulch beds. That is why the area right around your home matters so much. ## Create defensible space with the Home Ignition Zone Firewise USA, a program of the National Fire Protection Association, organizes wildfire preparation around the Home Ignition Zone. The idea is simple: the condition of your home and the area immediately around it largely determines whether embers and flames can ignite it. NFPA divides the zone into three parts, measured from the furthest attached point of your home, such as a deck or porch. ZoneDistance from homeMain goalKey actions Immediate0 to 5 feetNoncombustibleClear leaves and pine needles from roof and gutters; replace mulch with rock, gravel or pavers; move firewood and anything flammable away from walls and out from under decks; screen vents with 1/8-inch metal mesh Intermediate5 to 30 feetLean, clean and greenKeep lawns mowed to 4 inches or less; remove ladder fuels so fire cannot climb into trees; keep branches at least 10 feet from the house; space trees and shrubs apart; clear vegetation from around propane tanks Extended30 to 100 feetReduced fuelRemove dead plants, fallen branches and debris; thin dense vegetation; clear around sheds and outbuildings; work with neighbors where zones overlap ### Florida-specific tips for your yard - Pine needles and oak leaves pile up quickly on roofs and in gutters, especially after a cold front. Clear them regularly during the dry season. - Pine-bark and pine-straw mulch can catch embers. Within 5 feet of the house, gravel, pavers or bare soil are safer choices. - Saw palmetto and wax myrtle are common in West Volusia and can burn intensely. Keep thick stands trimmed back from your home, fences and sheds. - Lanais and screen enclosures collect debris along their edges. Sweep them out and keep cushions, firewood and supplies stored away when fire danger is high. - Visible house numbers help fire crews find you quickly. NFPA recommends reflective, noncombustible numbers at least 4 inches tall that can be seen from the road. - Driveway access matters for fire trucks. Trim branches back from driveways and private roads so apparatus can get in and turn around. ## Burning yard debris: know Florida's rules first Many residents still burn leaves and branches, but burning is regulated by the state and often restricted locally. The Florida Forest Service, part of the Florida Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, and Florida's open burning rule (Florida Administrative Code Rule 62-256.700) set out the basic requirements for burning yard waste without a state authorization. In summary: - Burn only yard waste such as leaves, grass clippings, brush, tree limbs and palm fronds, generated on your own residential property. - Make sure no local city or county ordinance prohibits burning, and that no burn ban is in effect. - Keep the pile no more than 8 feet in diameter, on ground cleared down to bare soil, or use a noncombustible container covered with wire mesh. - Meet the setbacks: at least 25 feet from woods, brush or any combustible structure, including your own house; 50 feet from any paved public road; and 150 feet from any occupied building other than your own. - Light the fire after 9 a.m. Eastern time and have it completely out at least one hour before sunset. - Do not burn on windy days, and make sure smoke does not reduce visibility on roads. - Stay with the fire at all times, with a water hose and shovel ready. - Never burn household garbage, paper products, treated lumber, plastics, rubber, tires, pesticides, paint or aerosol cans. Piles larger than 8 feet across require an authorization from the Florida Forest Service, along with suppression equipment and larger setbacks. Volusia County is served by the Florida Forest Service's Bunnell District. You could be held responsible: The Florida Forest Service warns that if your fire escapes, you may be liable for the cost of fighting it and for damage to other people's property. Many DeBary lots are too small to meet the setbacks. In most cases, curbside yard waste collection or a trip to a county transfer station or landfill is the safer choice. ## Volusia County burn bans Burn bans in Florida are issued by local governments, not by the Florida Forest Service. When drought conditions climb, Volusia County may restrict outdoor burning to reduce the risk of wildfire. Here are recent examples: - In June 2024, Volusia County announced a burn ban that prohibited open fires, including bonfires, campfires and yard debris burning not permitted by the Florida Forest Service, while still allowing above-ground charcoal, gas and electric grills. - In April 2025, the county again restricted outdoor burning as dry conditions raised the wildfire threat across Central Florida. - On February 20, 2026, Volusia County issued an outdoor burn ban for unincorporated areas plus Oak Hill, Lake Helen and Pierson, citing unusually high drought conditions. News 13 reported a Keetch-Byram Drought Index reading of 432 on a scale that tops out at 800. The ban prohibited yard trash burning, bonfires, campfires, warming fires and fire pits, while allowing contained gas or charcoal grills. Notice that a county ban does not always cover every city. DeBary is an incorporated city, so check both Volusia County and City of DeBary announcements to see what applies to your address. When in doubt, do not burn. ## Everyday sparks that start brush fires Lightning gets the headlines, but people start many brush fires by accident. During the dry season, be especially careful with: - Vehicles and equipment. Hot exhaust systems and catalytic converters can ignite dry grass. Do not park or idle on tall, dry vegetation. - Trailer chains. Chains dragging on the pavement throw sparks into roadside grass. Make sure safety chains are secured. - Mowers and power tools. Blades striking rocks can spark. Mow in the morning when humidity is higher, and keep a hose nearby. - Cigarettes. Never toss them from a car window or onto dry ground. - Campfires and fire pits. Follow burn bans and never leave a fire unattended. - Fireworks. Use them only where legal, away from dry vegetation, with water on hand. If you see smoke or fire in the woods, along the road or behind a neighborhood, call 911 right away. Early reports make a big difference. ## Be ready to go: your wildfire go-bag and plan Brush fires in Central Florida usually move along the ground, but wind-driven fires can move quickly, and smoke can make roads dangerous. If officials tell you to leave, go right away. Having a bag packed ahead of time makes that decision easy. ### Go-bag checklist - Water and non-perishable snacks for every person - Prescription medications and copies of prescriptions - Copies of IDs, insurance policies and other important documents in a waterproof bag - Phone chargers and a charged power bank - Flashlight, extra batteries and a battery-powered or hand-crank radio - A change of clothes and sturdy shoes - N95 masks to reduce smoke exposure - Glasses, hearing aids and mobility aids - Pet food, leashes, carriers and vaccination records - Cash in small bills ### Plan your exit - Know at least two ways out of your neighborhood, since a fire or smoke may block one road. - Sign up for Volusia County emergency alerts and follow official City of DeBary and Volusia County channels. - Back your car into the driveway during high fire danger so you can leave quickly. - Decide where you will go, such as a friend's or relative's home outside the area. - If fire is close and you have time, close all windows and doors, move patio furniture and doormats away from the house, and leave lights on so firefighters can see your home through smoke. The same go-bag works for hurricanes. See our [hurricane season fire and CO safety guide](/hurricane-season-generator-carbon-monoxide-safety/) for more on storm preparation. ## Prescribed fire is part of the solution You may sometimes see smoke from planned burns in state forests and conservation lands around the St. Johns River. Prescribed fire, set by trained crews under carefully chosen weather conditions, reduces the build-up of brush and leaf litter that would otherwise feed a much more intense wildfire. If you see smoke and are not sure whether it is a planned burn, it is always okay to call 911. ## How the community helps Long brush fires test everyone, especially the firefighters who work for hours in heavy gear under the Florida sun. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team helps by supporting those crews with rehab supplies such as water, ice, snacks, shade and fans. You can read more about our role in [what a support unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/), and about our roots in that first brush fire call of 1953 on our [history page](/history/). ## Sources and further reading - [Florida Forest Service (FDACS): Know the Law Before Burning Outdoors](https://ccmedia.fdacs.gov/content/download/4743/file/know_the_law.pdf) - [Florida Administrative Code Rule 62-256.700: Open Burning Allowed](https://www.law.cornell.edu/regulations/florida/Fla-Admin-Code-Ann-R-62-256-700) - [NFPA: Firewise USA](https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/wildfire/firewise-usa) - [U.S. Department of Energy Building America Solution Center: Defensible Space (NFPA zones)](https://basc.pnnl.gov/resource-guides/defensible-space-protection-against-wildfires) - [WUSF: Florida's Wildfire Season and the Weather](https://www.wusf.org/weather/2025-01-30/floridas-wildfire-season-weather-whats-at-play) - [News 13: DeBary brush fire threatening power plant, railroad (June 2019)](https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2019/06/02/officials--debary-brush-fire-threatening-power-plant--railroad) - [News 13: Volusia County puts outdoor burn ban in place (February 2026)](https://mynews13.com/fl/orlando/news/2026/02/20/volusia-county-puts-outdoor-burn-ban-in-place) - [Observer Local News: Volusia County institutes burn ban amid drought (June 2024)](https://www.observerlocalnews.com/news/2024/jun/05/volusia-county-institutes-countywide-burn-ban-amid-drought-conditions/) When brush fires burn for hours or days, our volunteers make sure firefighters have water, ice and shade. [Join the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/volunteer/) and be part of the support crew. ## FAQ Q: When is wildfire season in Central Florida? A: Florida can have wildfires any time of year, but risk builds through the dry season, which runs roughly from October through May, and typically peaks in late spring before the summer rains arrive. Early lightning storms on dry vegetation can also start fires. Q: Can I burn yard debris in my backyard in DeBary? A: State rules allow limited burning of yard waste on your own residential property only if local ordinances permit it, setbacks are met, the pile is no more than 8 feet across, and no burn ban is in effect. Always check with the City of DeBary, Volusia County and the Florida Forest Service before you burn. Q: What is the Home Ignition Zone? A: It is the Firewise USA framework for the area around your home: the immediate zone from 0 to 5 feet, the intermediate zone from 5 to 30 feet, and the extended zone from 30 to 100 feet. Reducing fuel in each zone helps your home resist embers and flames. Q: Who issues burn bans in Volusia County? A: Burn bans are issued by local governments, not by the Florida Forest Service. Volusia County bans have at times covered only unincorporated areas and certain cities, so check whether a ban applies to your address. Q: What should be in a wildfire go-bag? A: Pack water, medications, copies of important documents, phone chargers, a flashlight, a battery-powered radio, a change of clothes, N95 masks for smoke, and food and supplies for pets. --- # Fire Station 39: What DeBary’s Second Fire Station Means for Your Neighborhood URL: https://debaryvfa.org/fire-station-39-debary/ Published: 2026-01-20 · Updated: 2026-01-20 On January 9, 2026, the City of DeBary cut the ribbon on Fire Station 39 at 798 Fort Florida Road, the city's second fire station and its newest firehouse in more than eight years. More than 150 residents toured the building at the open house that followed. For families in the fast-growing southwest part of town, the new station changes something that matters every day, even if you never think about it: how long it takes help to arrive. Here is what Station 39 means for your neighborhood, how it fits into DeBary's long fire service history, and how the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team and our neighbors helped get it ready. ## Station 39 at a glance ItemWhat we know OpenedRibbon-cutting and community open house, January 9, 2026 Address798 Fort Florida Road, DeBary LocationSouthwest DeBary, west of the railroad tracks, near the St. Johns River CostAbout $6 million for the building, as reported by WKMG News 6 FundingA $1.25 million state appropriation helped complete the project; the Sanford Herald reports funds were set aside in Florida's 2022 state budget StaffingOrange City Fire Department, through the City of DeBary's fire services contract OwnershipThe City of DeBary owns and maintains the facilities and equipment The project was not quick or easy. News 6 reported that rising construction costs and funding challenges delayed it for years before the state appropriation made completion possible. Mayor Chasez described the result at the ceremony this way, according to the Sanford Herald: "This station is more than just bricks and mortar – it represents safety, preparedness, and our strong commitment" — DeBary Mayor Chasez, as quoted by the Sanford Herald State Senator Tom Wright, State Representatives Richard Gentry and Webster Barnaby, and Orange City officials were among those who attended. ## Why DeBary needed a second station For years, all of DeBary was covered from a single station. That works well for neighborhoods near the station, but DeBary has grown, and much of the new growth has been on the south and southwest sides of the city. Just as important, the railroad line that carries SunRail trains runs right through town. For a fire engine, a track crossing is a potential delay, especially if a train is passing at the wrong moment. Placing Station 39 west of the tracks was a deliberate choice. City Manager Carmen Rosamonda told WKMG News 6: "Being on the west side of the railroad tracks was very important to us." — DeBary City Manager Carmen Rosamonda, to WKMG News 6 Fire Chief Ronnie Long put it plainly: "It's pretty critical. There are a lot of communities being built on the south end of DeBary." ### From 11 minutes to 4 minutes According to the city, response times for residents farthest from the existing station are expected to drop from about 11 minutes to about 4 minutes. That is the difference between firefighters arriving to a room-and-contents fire and arriving to a house fully involved in flames. It matters just as much for medical calls. The American Heart Association reports that most out-of-hospital cardiac arrests happen at home, and that immediate CPR can double or triple the chance of survival. Every minute shaved off the time before trained crews arrive with a defibrillator and advanced care counts. Keep in mind: Response times are averages and goals, not guarantees. Crews from either station may already be on another call, traffic and weather vary, and the closest available unit is dispatched. A working smoke alarm, a practiced escape plan and neighbors who know CPR are still your first line of defense. ## Closer to the St. Johns River DeBary sits along the St. Johns River, Lake Monroe and a network of creeks and canals that draw boaters, anglers and paddlers year-round. Station 39's location close to the river gives crews a quicker path to water emergencies on the southwest side of town. Chief Long told News 6 that crews will "be able to take the boat just to the corner right here and be able to launch from Alexander Island in the future." If you spend time on the river, make it easy for rescuers: file a float plan with someone on shore, wear a life jacket, carry a charged phone in a waterproof case, and know your location. When you call 911 from the water, landmarks like bridges, marinas and named creeks help dispatchers send help to the right place. ## What an ISO rating means for your insurance City leaders noted that Station 39 helps maintain DeBary's Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating and that homeowners may see lower insurance rates. Here is what that means. ISO, part of the analytics company Verisk, assigns communities a Public Protection Classification (PPC) from 1 to 10. Class 1 generally represents superior property fire protection; Class 10 means a community's fire suppression program does not meet ISO's minimum criteria. According to Verisk, virtually all U.S. home and business insurers use PPC ratings when calculating premiums, and, with other factors equal, fire insurance is generally much cheaper in communities with good ratings. ### What goes into the rating - Fire department capability (the largest share of the score): stations, apparatus, staffing, training and distribution of companies - Water supply: hydrants and the system's ability to deliver water for firefighting - Emergency communications: 911 call handling and dispatch - Community risk reduction: prevention, public education and investigation Distance matters too. ISO's classification materials distinguish properties within five road miles of a fire station, and within 1,000 feet of a creditable water supply such as a hydrant, from properties farther away. A second station shortens those distances for many homes. Tip: ISO does not share PPC information directly with policyholders. If you live in southwest DeBary, ask your insurance agent whether your policy reflects the new station and whether your rating or distance-to-station information should be reviewed at your next renewal. ## Who staffs Station 39 Since 2009, fire and rescue service in DeBary has been provided by contract with the Orange City Fire Department. The City of DeBary owns and maintains the stations and equipment, and Orange City provides the firefighters. Station 39 follows the same model as Station 33, which opened in July 2017. It is worth repeating, because people often ask: the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team is not the fire department. We are a volunteer association, founded in 1953 as DeBary's original volunteer fire company, that now supports the professional firefighters who serve our city. If you have an emergency, call 911. If you have a question about fire department operations, contact the City of DeBary or the Orange City Fire Department. ## From one firehouse to two stations Station 39 is the latest chapter in a story DeBary residents started themselves. In October 1952, neighbors met to talk about the lack of fire protection in their community. The DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association was formally organized on June 23, 1953, and answered its first call, a brush fire, that October. - May 1954: The first engine arrives, a 1943 Chevrolet combination pumper-tanker from Leesburg. - February 13, 1955: DeBary's first firehouse is dedicated at 10 Colomba Road. It is still the association's hall today. - 1974: A new metal firehouse, Station 14, is built beside the original. - 1984: Fire service moves under Volusia County Fire Services, the station is redesignated Station 33, and the volunteers' Support Team is born. - 2009: The City of DeBary contracts with the Orange City Fire Department. - July 2017: The new Station 33 opens, the third firehouse in DeBary's history. - January 2026: Station 39 opens, giving DeBary two stations for the first time. You can read the full story on our [history page](/history/). ## How the association supported Station 39 New stations need more than a building and an engine. Crews need the everyday supplies and equipment that make a firehouse work. In 2024, the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team pledged the proceeds from its pancake breakfasts and its 70th-anniversary challenge coin sales to supplies and equipment for Station 39. That support came directly from residents: families who came out for pancakes at Florence K. Little Hall, and neighbors and collectors who bought a $20 challenge coin commemorating the association's 70 years of service. If you were one of them, thank you. You helped equip the crews who now protect southwest DeBary. The association also supports crews from both stations on long or hot incidents through our Support 33 rehab unit, which brings water, sports drinks, snacks, ice, shade and cooling to firefighters on scene, plus comfort for displaced residents. Learn more about [what a support unit does](/what-does-a-support-unit-do/). Please note: The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team never fundraises door to door. If someone comes to your home asking for money on our behalf, do not give it to them. Our fundraising happens through our pancake breakfasts, challenge coin sales and annual mailer. ## How you can help A new station is a big step, but the safety of your neighborhood still depends on residents. Here is how to make the most of Station 39: - Make your address easy to find. Use large, contrasting house numbers visible from the street day and night. New subdivisions and look-alike streets slow down even the closest crew. - Keep hydrants clear. Do not park in front of hydrants or bury them behind landscaping or fences. - Pull over for emergency vehicles. When you see lights or hear sirens, move to the right and stop until they pass. - Prevent the call. Test smoke alarms monthly, practice a home escape plan, and keep up with cooking and battery safety. - Learn CPR. Those first minutes before crews arrive are yours. - Come to a pancake breakfast. Check our [fundraisers](/fundraisers/) page for dates at Florence K. Little Hall. - Buy a challenge coin. Our 70th-anniversary [challenge coin](/coins/) is $20 and supports equipment and supplies for DeBary's firefighters. - Join us. Association and support members help raise funds, staff events and serve on rehab calls. ## Sources and further reading - [WKMG News 6: "It's pretty critical": New fire station opens in DeBary](https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2026/01/09/its-pretty-critical-new-fire-station-opens-in-debary) - [Sanford Herald: City of DeBary opens second fire station to enhance public safety](https://www.mysanfordherald.com/article/2549,city-of-debary-opens-second-fire-station-to-enhance-public-safety) - [Hoodline: DeBary celebrates opening of Fire Station 39](https://hoodline.com/2026/01/debary-celebrates-opening-of-fire-station-39-with-ribbon-cutting-ceremony-boosting-regional-emergency-response-times/) - [Verisk: Public Protection Classification (PPC) program FAQ](https://www.verisk.com/resources/faqs/public-protection-classification-ppc-program/) - [Texas Department of Insurance: Public Protection Classification explainer](https://agate.tdi.texas.gov/InsurED/documents/public-protection-classification-march-2023.pdf) - [American Heart Association: CPR facts and stats](https://cpr.heart.org/en/resources/cpr-facts-and-stats) Help us keep DeBary's firefighters supplied and supported at both stations. [Support the DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team](/support/) or [become a volunteer member](/volunteer/). Contributions to the DeBary Volunteer Firemen's Association, Inc. are not deductible as charitable contributions for federal income tax purposes. ## FAQ Q: Where is DeBary Fire Station 39? A: Station 39 is at 798 Fort Florida Road in southwest DeBary, west of the railroad tracks and near the St. Johns River. It held its ribbon-cutting and community open house on January 9, 2026. Q: Who staffs Fire Station 39? A: Like Station 33, Station 39 is staffed by the Orange City Fire Department through the City of DeBary's fire services contract. The DeBary Volunteer Fire Support Team is a separate volunteer association that supports those firefighters. Q: Will Station 39 lower my homeowners insurance? A: The city has said homeowners may see lower insurance rates, and the station helps maintain DeBary's ISO Public Protection Classification. Your actual premium depends on your insurer and policy, so ask your agent whether your property's rating or distance-to-station information should be updated. Q: How much faster will firefighters reach my home? A: According to the City of DeBary, response times for residents farthest from the existing station are expected to drop from about 11 minutes to about 4 minutes. Actual times vary with call volume, traffic and where crews are when a call comes in. Q: How can I support the firefighters at Station 39? A: Attend a DVFA pancake breakfast, buy a 70th-anniversary challenge coin, or become a member. The association pledged its 2024 pancake breakfast and challenge coin proceeds to supplies and equipment for Station 39. ---