News

On Monday afternoon, 23 April 2018, at 1545 hours, Millville Volunteer Fire Company was alerted by Sussex County EOC to assist several other stations in Sussex County by manning their quarters until they cleared a major fire event at the Mountaire Poultry Plant in Selbyville.  MVFC ladder truck was requested, but that particular piece is out of service at a distant vendor for repairs. 

I was contacted to respond directly to this event in the capacity of being a UAV (Drone) Pilot and assist Ocean View PD OFC Nick Harrington who was already in route to that location.  The Incident Commander at the Mountaire Fire requested the Unmanned Aerial Vehicle to assist by locating hot-spots within the building via the Thermal Imaging Camera.  The incident commander was able to direct fire operations to those firefighters situated inside the burning building.  OVPD is one of few public safety agencies equipped with such advanced technology.  Officer Harrington and I flew numerous missions above the complex keeping the incident commander informed of any changes in the fire flow.   

Considering the complex specifics of this fire type, all the details and additional information should be directed to the State Fire Marshal, or Selbyville VFC.

It is customary that I note all the fire equipment that responds, but today is different, there were too many fire companies and other support agencies present to mention.  Sussex County EOC did respond with the new Mobile Operation Center.  This allowed those tasked with fighting the fire to view on a large screen TV what the (UAV) drone was viewing above. 

Tony Petralia