New fire chief appointed in Wartrace
Mayor Vickie Smith has appointed Adam Smith as the new fire chief of Wartrace. With nearly three years of service in Wartrace, Chief Smith was named fire chief on March 29, 2019. He also served as a firefighter in Williamson County for two years, and began his firefighting career as a junior firefighter in Fairview at the age of 13.
Chief Smith is one step away from completing Firefighter One certification. Additionally he is a Certified Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), and has completed hazmat awareness certification, as well Incident Command System 1, 2, 3, 7, and 8 training through the Center for Domestic Preparedness and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
“Chief Smith is highly respected by other firefighters serving in the Wartrace Volunteer Fire Department,” said Mayor Smith. “I am confident that he brings a high level of professionalism to this position, along with ideas for positive growth. The Board of Mayor and Aldermen and I look forward to working with him as he leads his team of talented, brave volunteers who are on call every day and see to the safety of life and property in Wartrace.”
Mayor Smith stated that the new direction she anticipates for the WVFD is to update gear and equipment to be in compliance with national firefighter standards, provide regular maintenance to the fire hall, and to complete all necessary paperwork in a timely manner for both the Bedford County Fire Department and the Board of Mayor and Aldermen. Additionally Mayor Smith wants to see the formal opening of the new fire substation so that first responders will have necessary equipment during emergency calls on both sides of the railroad tracks that separate the town when trains park in the intersection.
Chief Smith said, “I am honored and humbled to accept the position of fire chief and to serve the community of Wartrace. I hope to build the professional image of the department and to make sure our firefighters receive all necessary training to keep our town and volunteers safe.”
The Wartrace Volunteer Fire Department meets at 6:30 p.m. on the fourth Thursday of every month at the main station on Blackman Blvd. “If you are interested in volunteering, please stop by our meeting or email me at asmith@townofwartrace.com,” said Chief Smith. “We welcome all interest from residents and Wartrace neighbors.”
Chief Smith has two children: Alyssa, 8 and Wyatt, 7. He is unrelated to the mayor.