Anniston Fire Department

10/09/2026

Please keep Retired Assistant Chief Jimmy Crossley’s family in your prayers as they lay him to rest today. Rest In Peace Brother.

10/08/2026

10/08/2026

"Really good for us." The City of Anniston unveiled a new fleet of fire engines this week, replacing a 20-year-old fleet.

10/08/2026

🔥🚒 The Anniston Fire Department has received five new Sutphen fire apparatus as part of the City’s ongoing effort to responsibly replace aging emergency-response equipment and maintain dependable fire protection throughout the City of Anniston, Alabama.

The new apparatus include four pumpers and one ladder truck. Each will replace an older vehicle currently serving in the department’s fleet. The four pumpers will replace apparatus dating to 2004, 2006, and two from 2007, while the new ladder truck will replace an aerial apparatus that has been in service for approximately 20 years.

“Our older trucks have served this city and our department well for many years,” said Anniston Fire Chief Johnnie Phelps. “Fire apparatus are used under demanding conditions and have to be ready whenever they are needed. Replacing these older units strengthens the reliability of our fleet and gives our firefighters updated equipment to safely serve the public for many years to come.”

The Anniston Fire Department responds to approximately 6,500 calls for service each year, placing significant demands on its emergency-response fleet. Fire apparatus are also expected to serve communities for many years, making planned replacement an important part of maintaining dependable service while reducing the operational challenges that can accompany aging equipment.

The four new pumpers will be placed into frontline service throughout the department. The new ladder truck will provide updated aerial capabilities for structure fires, elevated rescues, ventilation operations, and other emergencies requiring extended reach.

The replacement of these aging units also supports the department’s continued work to maintain its ISO Class 2 rating and provide a high level of fire protection for residents, businesses, and property throughout Anniston.

“This is about making sure our firefighters have dependable equipment when the call comes in and making responsible plans for the long-term needs of the department,” Phelps said. “We appreciate the continued support of our Mayor, City Council, City Manager, and the citizens of Anniston as we work every day to provide the best emergency services possible.”

The new apparatus will be incorporated into the department’s operations as crews complete the necessary equipment placement, training, and transition into frontline service.


Sutphen Corporation

10/03/2026

Week 4 is in the books, and the recruits spent the week getting hands-on with one of the most essential tools on the fireground — hose! 🚒💦

The recruits learned about the different types and sizes of fire hose, various hose loads, and the importance of selecting the right hose for the job. They stretched handlines off the apparatus and advanced them to the front door, working on the skills and techniques needed to efficiently move hose into a structure and get water where it needs to go.

They also spent time learning about firefighting foam, including the different methods of foam application and when those methods may be used.

To finish out the week, the recruits got a taste of what they’ve been training for — live fire and heat! This gave them the opportunity to experience the heat and conditions that come with fireground operations while putting their training to work.

A HUGE thank you to Superior Gas for coming out and helping us with the propane simulator! Your support helps us provide our recruits with valuable hands-on training and experiences that prepare them for the real world of firefighting.

09/26/2026

RECRUIT SCHOOL | WEEK 3 COMPLETE!

Week 3 is officially in the books at the Anniston Regional Training Center, and this week was all about Ladders & Tactical Ventilation!

Our recruits spent the week getting hands-on with 24’ and 35’ extension ladders, working on carries, raises, placement, climbing, and proper ladder operations. They also had the opportunity to take their ladder training to the next level by climbing the 95’ and 100’ aerial ladder trucks, giving them valuable experience and a whole new perspective on working at height.

The recruits also put their skills to work during vertical ventilation operations on the roof prop, gaining hands-on experience with the tools, techniques, communication, and teamwork required to safely and effectively ventilate a structure.

This week challenged the recruits both physically and mentally while reinforcing an important lesson in the fire service — good fireground operations depend on communication, coordination, and trust in your crew.

Three weeks down. The work continues. 💪🔥

Train hard. Work together. Be ready.

09/20/2026

This weekend at the IAFF Fallen Firefighter Memorial in Colorado Springs, 288 names were added to the granite walls -- each representing a life dedicated to service, sacrifice, and community. Among them was our very own, Chief Jeff Waldrep.

Afterwards, the pipes and drums celebrated the memories of the fallen in the streets of downtown Colorado Springs.

The weekend was a poignant blend of pride, honor, and sorrow. Every name etched on that wall tells a story, and every ring of the bell carries a legacy that outlasts the uniform. With full hearts, we extend our deepest gratitude to the IAFF for the reverence, dignity, and care shown to the Waldrep family and our contingent, making certain our fallen brothers and sisters are never forgotten.

Chief Waldrep gave his all to the City of Anniston and the firefighters he led. While his name is now permanently etched in Colorado, his impact remains alive in each of firehouses.

Here are some moments captured throughout the weekend honoring Chief Waldrep and 287 other's legacy and service.

09/19/2026

🚒 A Great Day at the Training Center! 🚒

We had the pleasure of welcoming the Ohatchee 6th Grade Class to the training center for a field trip! It was a great opportunity for the students to learn more about the fire service, see some of the equipment we use, and get a firsthand look at what goes on at the training center.

A special thank you to Lt. Poole, our Fire Science instructor, for taking the time to talk with the students, answer their questions, and show them some of the equipment and skills involved in the fire service.

We appreciate the teachers and students from Ohatchee for spending the day with us. We hope you had as much fun visiting as we did having you here!

Thanks for coming to the training center — we look forward to seeing you again! 👨‍🚒🔥

09/18/2026

Another Busy Week at the Training Center!

Week 2 of Recruit School is officially in the books!

This week, we had recruits continuing their journey through Recruit School, building the skills, knowledge, and teamwork they’ll need to serve their communities.

At the same time, we had a Pumper Operations class working on the skills and knowledge required to effectively operate and utilize one of the most important tools on the fireground.

We also had an Instructor III class taking place, helping develop the next generation of fire service instructors and leaders who will be responsible for passing knowledge and experience on to others.

Three different classes. Multiple levels of experience. One common goal:

Train hard. Get better. Be ready.

That’s what we do at the training center — developing firefighters, developing instructors, and preparing the fire service for whatever comes through the door.

Another week in the books. Another week of getting better.

Have a Blessed weekend!