WOODBRIDGE, Va. — In September 1938, the Occoquan-Woodbridge-Lorton Volunteer Fire Department was officially incorporated.
It marked two years of hard work for a group of concerned citizens who recognized the need for a fire department in the area. Many of them put up personal property and their own money to secure loans to build a building to house the apparatus and start the department.
Sometimes they had to “pass the hat” to pay electric and other bills monthly.
Before OWL VFD the closest fire departments were in Pen Daw (Fairfax Station 11) to the north, Manassas to the west and Fredericksburg to the south. The first station was in Occoquan on the corner of Washington and Mill streets, which was dubbed Station Two in Prince William County.
You can still see the concrete pad where it was located. From there they built a building that is now the VFW in Occoquan. In 1958 they opened a second Station on U.S. 1 in Woodbridge, and numbered the Occoquan station “2-1” and the Woodbridge station “2-2.”
From there, OWL moved to the current Station 2 on F Street in Woodbridge, opened up the Lake Ridge Station 14, and Station 12 on U.S. 1 which was later relocated to Montgomery Avenue.
OWL VFD’s continued success is because of the foresight and hard work of those who built the foundation and the dedication and commitment of our members who serve today. Even from our humble beginnings, OWL VFD has historically strategically planned for disaster events, keeping up on the latest training, equipment and education available.
OWL VFD invests thousands of hours in professional training and certification courses. Our care and dedication to Fire and Rescue is reflected in our efforts of staying up to date and ready for the task.
OWL VFD is one of the largest and busiest volunteer fire and rescue departments in the United States. OWL VFD provides fire suppression, EMS care, and rescue services to 80,000 residents in our 27 square mile area through the operation of three fire stations. OWL volunteer Firefighters and EMTs work the 6 pm to 6 am shift, five days a week, plus 24 hours on holidays and weekends.
-Press release
Recent Stories
With the Virginia Department of Transportation considering upgrading the intersection of LaFayette Boulevard and Kenmore Avenue, some nearby business owners say they wish police would crack down on bad drivers instead of reconfiguring the streets.
![[Photo: FredNats]](https://www.potomaclocal.com/wp-content/uploads/2023/06/frednats-1.jpeg)
The Fredericksburg Nationals are here to stay — but under new ownership. Now we want to know how you feel about the future of baseball in our city.
Samantha Lewis (middle) walked across the stage at graduation four months after complications from medical treatments that left her without feeling in her legs. [Courtesy photo]In late May, Samantha Lewis,…
BELMONT BAY, Va. – Kayakers from the Belmont Bay Paddlers are raising concerns again after finding a dozen tires dumped in the Occoquan River this spring. 🛶
Go Ape, America’s leading aerial adventure park provider, is proud to unveil a revitalized experience across its iconic Zipline & Adventure Parks. This refresh goes beyond physical upgrades; it reflects a renewed mission to foster meaningful connections between people, nature, and self.
“Go Ape has always been about thrilling treetop adventures,” says Chrissy Very, Senior Director of Marketing. “Now, we’re redefining what it means to truly connect: through purpose-driven outdoor experiences that inspire courage, reflection, and joy.”
As access to public outdoor spaces becomes more limited, Go Ape steps in to bridge the gap with immersive, inclusive, and wellness-focused adventures for individuals, families, and groups.
Alt-rock legends Gin Blossoms are performing a FREE live show TONIGHT, Wednesday, June 11th at The Bullpen – and D.C., you’re invited.
Power to the Patients will be hosting Gin Blossoms for Special Performance at Congressional Baseball Game Pre-Party.
This unforgettable night under the summer sky features the band behind ‘90s classics like “Hey Jealousy,” “Found Out About You,” and “Follow You Down.” Expect a packed crowd, cold drinks, and killer energy.
Your Weight Matters National Convention
Hosted by the Obesity Action Coalition (OAC) since 2012, this highly-anticipated gathering is the nation’s leading gathering focused on empowering individuals with science-based education, support and practical tools for managing weight and improving health.
This unique Convention truly has something
Van Metre 5K Run
Participate in the 33rd Annual Van Metre 5K Run—a race that goes further than 3.1 miles, where every stride you take supports Children’s National Hospital. The Van Metre 5K Run donates 100% of proceeds to Children’s National Hospital and has
