To provide immediate medical (BLS&ALS) care to pateints in the Sharon Fire Department coverage area, until the Rescue Squad arrives for transport. Also to respond and assist any area rescue squads in times of need.
Coverage
The normal coverage area for Sharon encompasses all of Alleghany County east of the Clifton Forge city limits, and also includes the Route 42 corridor in Bath County, south of Millboro. On request, Sharon Volunteer First Responders have assisted on calls in Iron Gate, Clifton Forge, Westgate, Selma, and Rockbridge and Botetourt Counties
History
The Sharon Volunteer Fire Department was established in 1970 and is the youngest fire company in the Alleghany Highlands. In mid-July of 1996 the need for additional emergency medical services in the eastern part of Alleghany County was realized. With the support and assistance of the Clifton Forge Rescue Squad the Sharon Volunteer Fire Department First Response program was developed. On January 15, 1997, the Sharon Volunteer Fire Department was licensed by the Virginia Office of EMS. This is the first and only First Responder program in Alleghany County.
Other Information
Three of our units are licensed to respond to medical emergencies (Non-transport). Rescue 87, Engine 82, and Truck 85 are all certified for emergency medical response. Rescue 87 is the only truck that is able to provide Advanced Life Support (ALS). Engine 82 is licensed for Basic Life Support(BLS), and carries the Hurst Jaws of Life. Truck 85 is also licensed BLS and carries various Rope and Rescue tools as well as fire suppression equipment.
The First Responder Program is a successful, active part of our fire department, that enjoys strong support from our community, county government and surrounding EMS agencies.
