McMinn County Rescue Squad

10/10/2026

The McMinn County Rescue Squad has acquired a ONE WHEEL SYSTEM for use with a stokes basket, funded by a grant from the VEC SHARES Program. This equipment will facilitate easier transportation of individuals from wooded areas and trails.

09/16/2026

Sometimes the job gets tricky, but maintaining a positive, professional relationship with the staff of Athens Utilities Board is beneficial when their assistance is required.

Thank You, AUB!

Last night, Clearwater Volunteer Fire Department and McMinn Fire and Rescue was called to assist a gentleman who had become stranded in a towable boom lift after it malfunctioned and would not lower him back to the ground.

With one call, AUB was ready and willing to step in and help us help someone in our community. It is partnerships like these that make such a difference when our community needs us most!

A huge THANK YOU to AUB for your quick response and willingness to assist. We truly appreciate you and your continued support of our community!

09/11/2026

As Americans, we vowed never to forget, MAY GOD BLESS AMERICA

09/02/2026

🚨 Sharing from another post not our words 🚨

UPDATE: The Search for Missing Hiker in Great Smoky Mountains National Park Ends Safely 🚨

The search for Marcin Bachleda-Blaszczak, the 39-year-old Illinois man missing since late August, has concluded safely...but under deeply concerning circumstances.

Yes, indeed, as I said, he was actually on the Appalachian Trail. Remember Folks, I hike these trails and the reputation of the trail doesn't mean squat to me. I care about SAFETY!!!

Authorities have confirmed that he trekked roughly 70 miles across the rugged mountain terrain from Gatlinburg, Tennessee, all the way down to Fontana Dam, North Carolina.

While a 70-mile mountain trek is a grueling physical distance, the reality behind his disappearance is much darker than a standard hiking mishap. Upon making contact with law enforcement, Bachleda-Blaszczak revealed that he was driven into the wilderness by a perceived spiritual calling, operating under the belief that the end of the world was imminent as told to him by God, himself.

His journey ended after he got a ride from Fontana Dam to Andrews, North Carolina, and ultimately walked another 20 miles to Murphy, North Carolina, where he walked into the police station.
While he was found safe and has since been reunited with his parents, the severe disorientation and apocalyptic delusions driving his actions strongly suggest a mental health crisis was at play.

I'm glad he was found safe but, it's a stark reminder of how many people suffering from Mental Illness are roaming around The Appalachian Trail and that Danger Does Exist because of the Mental Health Crisis along the AT.

09/01/2026

The McMinn County Rescue Squad was recently awarded the Volunteer Firefighter Equipment and Training Grant through a partnership with the State of Tennessee Fire Marshal's Office. This grant will assist in providing more firefighters with proper personal protective equipment (PPE) and updating outdated self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) equipment.

08/30/2026

Our team finished today's mission, but unfortunately, we didn't locate the missing hiker. The search will continue tomorrow with the assistance of aerial teams. Our crew of five was happy to help with today's search efforts. Please keep all those involved in your thoughts and prayers !

08/29/2026

Please keep our members in your thoughts and prayers as they prepare to be deployed to the Great Smoky Mountains for a missing hiker.

08/02/2026

08/02/2026

The McMinn County Rescue Squad is actively looking for individuals to join their team as new members. We are seeking applicants who are at least 16 years of age or older. By becoming a member today, you have the opportunity to positively impact the lives of others and provide assistance to individuals who are experiencing their most difficult day and are in urgent need of help. Please see the attached link for a application
https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0YzfCapK-gFifB0R1VtRdO2TMLj0pXZT51iL3Sp-XagyQqg/viewform

07/09/2026

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/MWOWTKI8NLSJ?ref_=wl_share

Here is our Amazon list for those wishing to donate. We appreciate everyone’s donations so far.