Newport News Now 5-6-2024
Rogers Named Fire Chief
City Manager Alan K. Archer announced his selection of Wesley A. Rogers as Newport News Fire Chief. Rogers has been acting as our interim fire chief since April of last year. In his new role, he will be responsible for an annual operating budget of more than $40 million, 11 stations, and a staff of 410.
Rogers began his career in 2004 as a firefighter recruit with the city and has served in various increasingly responsible capacities in Operations, Special Operations, Support Services, Professional Development, and the Training Division. His career also includes roles as a technical instructor for the Virginia Department of Emergency Management, Hampton Roads Criminal Justice Training Academy, and the Newport News Police Department Academy.
Rogers holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Chemistry, a Master’s Degree in Public Administration, and is certified as an Emergency Medical Technician – Paramedic with the Virginia Department of Health’s Office of Emergency Medical Services. He has also completed the National Fire Academy’s Executive Fire Officer Program and is credentialed as a Chief Fire Officer through the Center for Public Safety Excellence and the Center for Professional Credentialing.
It’s National Hurricane Preparedness Week!
As the Atlantic hurricane season approaches, it’s time to refresh our knowledge and prepare for potential storms. National Hurricane Preparedness Week, May 5 – 11, serves as a crucial reminder to safeguard ourselves, our families, and our communities.
Understand your risk from hurricanes, and begin pre-season preparations now:
- Subscribe to NN Alert: Make sure you receive critical information quickly, including public safety and severe weather. Residents can sign up online.
- Know Your Zone: Evacuation zones are designated A through D and provide clarity on whether you should evacuate in an emergency or shelter at home based on your physical street address and the nature of the emergency event. Review the Virginia Department of Emergency Management’s Know Your Zone program.
- Pack a Kit: After an emergency, you may need to survive on your own for several days. Being prepared means having your own food, water, and other supplies to last for several days. A disaster supplies kit is a collection of basic items your household may need in the event of an emergency, including medications. Get more information and a handy list on Ready.gov.
- Make a Plan: Discuss and practice your family disaster plan. Everyone should know evacuation routes, meeting points, and emergency contacts.