PERSONNEL NEWS FROM THE AVON VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPARTMENT
Chief Bruce Appell Announces Explorer Promotions, Certification Completions, and a New Member
December 9, 2025 | Avon, Conn. — The Avon Volunteer Fire Department recently recognized the promotions of two Explorer Officers, two members’ completion of firefighter certifications, and the oath of membership for a new member.
“It is my honor to officially celebrate the achievements of our members,” said Avon Volunteer Fire Department Chief Bruce Appell. “I am proud to offer my congratulations to them and to welcome another new volunteer to our team.”
Explorer Officers Named
- Abigail Stamp was named Explorer Captain. She joined the Explorer program in January of 2023.
- Jacob Theriault was named Explorer Lieutenant. He joined the Explorer program in June of 2024.
AVFD Explorers are high school students, 14 years or older, who are interested in learning more about emergency services. They participate in weekly drills guided by Avon firefighters and learn about fire suppression, search and rescue, climbing ladders, rescue tools, CPR, how to work as a team, and many other practical skills that firefighters use to provide a vital service to their community. Explorers also assist with fire safety programs at the local schools, and participate in community events, parades, fundraisers, and more.
Completed Firefighter Certifications
- Richard Schiffres completed both Firefighter I and Firefighter II.
- Jacob Jones completed Firefighter I.
Joined the AVFD
- Ariel Mazara took his membership oath at the AVFD Corporation Meeting on October 27, 2025.
About the AVFD
Incorporated in 1943, the Avon Volunteer Fire Department proudly protects nearly 20,000 people living in the 23 square mile area that makes up the Town of Avon. The Department’s mission is to provide fire suppression and prevention, life safety and rescue support, as well as other community support to the citizens of the Town of Avon. In addition, the Department provides mutual aid support to those surrounding communities that, in time of need, may request such assistance.
Staffed entirely by volunteers, the Avon Volunteer Fire Department prides itself on the selflessness and dedication of its members. The Department operates six companies and 15 pieces of apparatus, including a brush truck, ladder truck, tanker, rescue vehicle, boat, and pumpers. Four stations are located throughout Town – Company 1 on Darling Drive, Company 2 on Secret Lake Road, Company 3 on West Avon Road, and Company 4 on Huckleberry Hill Road. Anyone interested in learning more about the AVFD should call the Avon Volunteer Fire Department (AVFD) at 677-2644, visit www.AvonVFD.org, connect on Facebook and Instagram at AvonVFD, or stop by the Company 1 firehouse located at 25 Darling Drive any Monday evening after 7:00.
