By Mikie Dumire
The Parsons Advocate
A Tucker County family lost their home and belongings last Thursday evening. At approximately 7:13 p.m. Parsons Volunteer Fire Department Company 10 responded with seven units and 18 men to a reported flu fire on Cheat Valley Highway. They were assisted by Thomas Company 40 with two units and five men, Davis Company 20 with two units and five men and Leading Creek Company 47 with two units and eight men. Also, assisting at the scene was Tucker County EMS with two units and four personnel. EMS workers provided warm towels and hand warmers as the fire fighters battled the blaze in the frigid temperatures.
Parsons Volunteer Fire Chief Kevin White said, “The Tucker County Sheriff’s Department and the Parsons Detachment of the West Virginia State Police conducted traffic control. The WV Department of Highways assisted by keeping the roads cleared and salted and Tucker 911 handled the information and organized resources.” White stated, “Everyone did a great job and as always we are grateful for all the assistance and compassion received.”
The family’s pets were able to escape the burning home, although, one cat needed medical attention which was provided by EMS workers. White said, “The cat is up and doing fine.”
The Parsons Volunteer Fire Department’s Ladies Auxiliary and members of the community sent coffee, hot chocolate and snacks for the nourishment and comfort of all the emergency personnel. White said, “It was a great team effort, everyone worked under some very adverse circumstances due to the weather, we appreciate the efforts of each and everyone .”