COVINGTON, Ky. — Six local firefighters left northern Kentucky last week to assist with search and rescue efforts in the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, saving lives beyond their community.

What You Need To Know

  • Six Covington firefighters volunteered to serve on the Ohio Task Force and the Kentucky Emergency Management Team to assist with Hurricane Helene relief

  • The death toll from the storms is 150, as of Tuesday afternoon 

  • Nearly a third came in Asheville, North Carolina

"I've seen videos from North Carolina and Tennessee, and I've never seen anything like it before," said Jimmy Adams, deputy chief of operations for the Covington Fire Deparrtment. "These are very dangerous situations to operate in, no matter how well you're trained."

Despite the dangers, some Covington firefighters have joined the Ohio Task Force to aid in Helene relief efforts. Battalion Chief Chris Alsip, Capt. Amy Schaefer, Lt. Paul Woodring, Lt. Mike Davis, firefighter Tyler Sipes and Battalion Chief Joe Bowman, who is serving on the emergency management team, are all part of this vital mission.

"These are all people who go above the basic level of training," Adams said. "They've chosen this path to put themselves in these difficult situations." 

Right now, they're in North Carolina, where rescuers are still searching for missing people in the mountains while delivering food, water and supplies to those affected by the storm. The hurricane has claimed at least 150 lives across multiple states, with nearly a third of those deaths occurring in Asheville, North Carolina, where the firefighters are now assisting.

North Carolina Gov. Roy Cooper (D) addressed the challenges of the relief effort in a recent press conference, applauding first responders for their dedication. 

"The challenges are immense," Cooper said. "But our joint response effort has and will continue to be massive. No matter who or where you are in western North Carolina, if you need help, we are working around the clock to reach you."

Adams expressed confidence in his team's abilities while reflecting on its work in North Carolina and Florida. 

"We go out there and try to do the best we can," he said.

The firefighters are expected to remain in North Carolina for the next week. Adams said they're fully prepared to bring their expertise to the ongoing relief efforts. 

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