FAIRVIEW, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Fairview Volunteer Fire Department has added a new vehicle to support its search-and-rescue K9 operations, thanks to donations from a local support group and a nonprofit organization.
The department recently received a used SUV purchased by the Fairview VFD Support Ops Team from another fire department. The vehicle will serve as the primary transport unit for the department’s search-and-rescue dog, Scout.
The nonprofit group Protection4Paws donated specialized K9 transportation equipment that was installed in the vehicle to help ensure the dog’s safety while traveling to incidents.
The SUV is outfitted with a K9 kennel designed for secure transport and a temperature monitoring system. If the temperature inside the vehicle rises above a set level, the system automatically activates the horn, lowers the windows and turns on an interior fan to help cool the vehicle. At the same time, an app sends text alerts to the dog’s handler and other designated personnel, warning them of the increasing temperature.
“We are very grateful for the donation of the vehicle from the Fairview VFD Support Ops Team and for the donation of equipment from donors through Protection for Paws,” the department said in a statement.
Fire officials said the upgrades allow the department to safely transport the K9 to emergencies where the dog may be needed.
James Myers serves as Scout’s handler and also works as the department’s safety officer and training captain. In those roles, he is responsible for monitoring firefighter safety and accountability during incidents such as structure fires and wildland fires. Officials said the new vehicle will also assist him in his safety officer duties.
The SUV recently returned to service after graphics from its previous department were removed and Fairview VFD markings were installed.
Department leaders said the safety officer role and the K9 division have proven valuable not only to Fairview firefighters but also to emergency operations across Buncombe County and neighboring counties.
