Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department

10/18/2026

Every day, emergency responders, law enforcement officers, EMS personnel, tow truck operators, and highway department workers place themselves in harm’s way while serving and protecting our communities.

Motorists play a critical role in ensuring their safety. Help keep our roads safe by remaining alert, eliminating distractions, anticipating sudden traffic slowdowns, and watching for flashing emergency lights. Emergency responders’ attention is focused on the task at hand, and they may not be able to react to approaching traffic. This makes them especially vulnerable to inattentive or speeding drivers.

First responders also share something even more important: they have families, friends, and loved ones waiting for them at home. The next time you encounter flashing lights along the roadside, remember that a simple action on your part can save a life.

Protect the ones who protect you by moving over and slowing down!

10/14/2026

As temperatures fall and heating systems, fireplaces, generators, and fuel-burning appliances are used more frequently, we would like to remind all residents about the dangers of CO (carbon monoxide).

CO is often called the “silent” or “invisible killer” because it is a colorless, odorless, and tasteless gas that cannot be detected by human senses. Exposure to carbon monoxide can cause serious illness, permanent injury, or death within minutes, making awareness and prevention critical for every household.

CO is produced whenever fuels such as gasoline, natural gas, propane, oil, wood, charcoal, or coal burn incompletely. Common sources include furnaces, water heaters, fireplaces, wood/pellet stoves, portable generators, gas-powered equipment, and motor vehicles. When these appliances are not properly maintained or ventilated, dangerous levels of CO can accumulate indoors.

CO prevents the blood from carrying oxygen effectively throughout the body. Early symptoms can resemble the flu and are often overlooked. Common signs include headache, dizziness, weakness or fatigue, nausea or
vomiting, shortness of breath, chest pain, and confusion or disorientation. Severe exposure can cause loss of consciousness, permanent brain damage, and death. People who are sleeping may never recognize the symptoms before becoming overcome by the gas.

Everyone is vulnerable to carbon monoxide poisoning, but certain groups face greater risk. This including infants and young children, older adults, individuals with heart disease, people with respiratory conditions and individuals with anemia. These populations may experience symptoms sooner and suffer more severe health effects.

Fortunately, carbon monoxide poisoning is largely preventable through proper maintenance, detection, and safe operating practices. Install CO alarms on every level of the home, and according to manufacturer
recommendations. Test alarms regularly and replace batteries as needed. Replace the entire alarm unit according to the manufacturer's guidelines but at least every 10 years. Have furnaces, boilers, water heaters, fireplaces, and other fuel-burning appliances inspected and serviced annually by qualified professionals. Proper maintenance helps ensure equipment operates safely and vents correctly.

Portable generators are a leading cause of carbon monoxide poisoning during power outages. Never operate a generator inside a home, garage, basement, crawl space, or enclosed area. Place generators outdoors in well-ventilated locations away from doors, windows, and vents. Follow all manufacturer safety instructions.

Charcoal grills, camp stoves, and other outdoor cooking devices should never be used inside homes, garages, tents, or enclosed spaces because they can quickly generate deadly levels of CO. Never run a vehicle inside a garage, even with the garage door open. Ensure vehicle exhaust pipes remain clear of snow, ice, or debris during winter conditions. After snowstorms or severe weather, inspect exterior vents for furnaces, dryers, fireplaces, and other appliances. Blocked vents can cause CO to back up into the home.

If your CO alarm activates move everyone immediately to fresh air outdoors or near an open door or window and call 911. Do not re-enter the building until emergency responders determine it is safe. Immediately seek medical attention if anyone experiences symptoms of CO poisoning.

CO poisoning is a serious but preventable hazard. By installing and maintaining carbon monoxide alarms,
ensuring fuel-burning appliances are serviced regularly, and following safe practices with generators, vehicles, and heating equipment, families can significantly reduce their risk.

Numerous times each year, we have responded to incidents where a properly functioning carbon monoxide alarm provided early warning and helped prevent a tragedy. Taking just a few minutes to test your alarms and ensure they are working properly can make a life-saving difference.

When in doubt - - - get out - - - stay out! NEVER assume any alarm is false. Whether it's a fire, carbon monoxide, or another safety alarm, take it seriously every time. The Greenleaf Fire Department will respond and investigate, and there is NEVER A CHARGE for this service.

10/04/2026

Fire Prevention Week is October 4-10 and serves as an important reminder that fire safety begins at home. The Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department is proud to join fire departments across the nation in promoting fire prevention education and encouraging residents to take simple steps that can save lives.

This year's Fire Prevention Week theme is: "Charge Into Fire Safety - Safe Charging Is a Superpower,
” focuses on the safe use and charging of lithium-ion batteries, which power many of the devices we rely on every day including cell phones, tablets, laptops, power tools, e-bikes, and scooters. The theme was selected by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to raise awareness about the growing number of fire incidents involving rechargeable batteries.

While this year's focus is on battery safety, we encourage families to review their overall home fire safety practices. Working smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, inside bedrooms, and outside sleeping areas. Families should test smoke alarms monthly, replace batteries as needed, develop a home escape plan that includes two ways out of every room and establish a designated meeting place outside.

Prevention remains one of the most effective tools in reducing fire-related injuries and property loss. By taking a few moments to review fire safety practices and ensure devices are charged safely, residents can help protect their families, homes, and community. We encourage everyone to make fire safety a priority. Small actions today can prevent tragedies tomorrow.

We would like to thank our residents for their continued support and commitment in keeping our community fire safe. Together, we can "Charge Into Fire Safety" and make “Safe Charging a Superpower” in every home.

Stay safe, informed, prepared, and fire smart!

09/10/2026

Each year on September 11, Americans pause to remember one of the most tragic days in our nation's history. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks that forever changed our country and profoundly impacted families, communities, and first responders across the nation.

Nearly 3,000 innocent lives were lost that day. Amid unimaginable tragedy, extraordinary acts of courage and selflessness emerged as firefighters, law enforcement officers, emergency medical personnel, and ordinary citizens risked their own lives to help others. Their bravery exemplified the very best of the American spirit and remains an enduring source of inspiration.

The sacrifices made by first responders that day serve as a powerful reminder of the unwavering commitment, courage, and dedication required by these men and women who serve and protect our communities. Hundreds answered the call without hesitation, with many making the ultimate sacrifice in an effort to save others. Their legacy continues to inspire volunteer, paid-on-call, career firefighters and EMS personnel throughout the country.

As we observe this solemn anniversary, we honor the memory of those who lost their lives, remember the families who continue to bear the weight of that loss, and express our deepest gratitude to all first responders who place service above self. We also recognize the resilience, unity, and determination that emerged in the aftermath of the attacks. Those qualities remind us that even during the most difficult times, communities can come together with strength, compassion, and resolve, whether facing acts of terrorism, severe weather, or other catastrophic events.

The Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department encourages all residents to take a moment to reflect on the sacrifices made that day and recognize those who continue to serve their communities today. By sharing the lessons of that day with future generations, we help ensure that the lives lost, the heroism displayed, and the enduring values of courage, service, and patriotism will live on forever.

08/18/2026

After more than 57 years of dedicated service to the Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department, Joe De Cleene has made a difficult personal decision to retire from active service and hang up his gear.

When he joined the department, emergency response operations looked very different than they do today. Some firefighters including Joe were alerted to a call through a fire phone connected to the station’s fire whistle (siren) that they activated to alert the rest of the crew of an emergency. Over nearly six decades of service, Joe witnessed remarkable advancements in firefighting technology, equipment, communications, and operations, while
remaining a constant and dependable presence within the department.

Throughout his distinguished career, Joe served in a variety of roles, including firefighter, Captain, and longtime coordinator of the department’s annual water fight tournaments held during the summer picnic. Whether facing blizzards, freezing rain, extreme heat, or summer humidity, Joe could always be counted on to answer the call. His dedication to serving others never wavered, even in his later years of service.

His commitment to the department and the community has been nothing short of exceptional. If a Fire Chief were asked to describe the ideal volunteer firefighter, that description would undoubtedly reflect the qualities Joe demonstrated every day such as dedication, reliability, selflessness, professionalism, and an unwavering desire to serve others.

On behalf of the Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department and the community you have so faithfully protected, we extend our sincere gratitude for your remarkable years of service. Your leadership, passion, and steadfast commitment have left an enduring legacy and established a standard of excellence that will inspire generations of firefighters to come.

As you begin this new chapter, we wish you many years of happiness, health, and well-deserved relaxation. Enjoy the peace and quiet of uninterrupted family gatherings, restful nights of sleep, and the freedom from a pager sounding off at family events, during church services and meals, or in the middle of the night waking the entire household.

Congratulations Joe and thank you for an extraordinary 57+ years of service. Your dedication, sacrifice, and commitment have made a lasting impact on this department and community. You have truly left a lasting impression!

07/23/2026

The Fire Department is pleased to announce the winners of the 2026 Greenleaf Fireman’s Picnic raffles. Congratulations to the winners, and sincere thanks to everyone who participated in and supported this year's event. Your continued generosity and involvement are instrumental in helping us serve our community. We greatly appreciate your support and contribution to making this year's picnic another outstanding success.

07/19/2026

Last year’s rain-soaked event was jokingly referred to as "Aqua Fest" and our 2026 picnic was nearly dubbed "Smoky Humidity Fest" due to this summer's challenging weather conditions. Fortunately, with a little cooperation from Mother Nature, the day turned out to be beautiful and was enjoyed by all who attended.

Great music, outstanding food, refreshing beverages, children’s activities, and exceptional camaraderie contributed to the success of this year’s picnic. We would like to extend our sincere gratitude to everyone who attended and supported the department, including the many community members who made donations, local businesses that sponsored the event, and the many volunteer workers who dedicated their time to ensure guests
were served promptly and efficiently.

Once again, the bicycle raffle and rock-climbing wall proved especially popular with the children.

While EAGLE IIIEAGLE IIIle to attend due to operational commitments, County ReCounty Rescuely brought an ambulance to the event. This provided attendees with a valuable opportunity to explore emergency medical equipment firsthand and learn more about the services and capabilities available within our community.

Finally, we would like to recognize and thank our department members whose countless hours of planning, preparation, and hard work made this annual fundraiser possible. Their dedication, commitment, and teamwork remain the foundation of this department.

On behalf of the members of the Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department, thank you to everyone who helped make the 2026 picnic a memorable and successful event.

Raffle winners will be posted later this week.

07/18/2026

Wet Possum is just setting up and are getting ready to start at 630pm so come on out and enjoy some live music!

07/18/2026

The 104th Annual Greenleaf Fireman’s Picnic begins today at 11:00 a.m. In addition to the UTV/ATV and cash raffles, attendees will have the opportunity to purchase chances for the items shown.

We sincerely appreciate your continued support of the Greenleaf Volunteer Fire Department and thank you for helping make this longstanding event a success. We wish all participants the very best of luck!

07/17/2026