Blackfoot Fire Department holds fundraiser for firefighter injured in blaze

BLACKFOOT — The Blackfoot Fire Department has come together to hold a fundraiser for firefighter Dave Jackson, who was injured while battling a fire at the beginning of July.

Fire Chief Bryon Howell said Jackson is doing well and is on the road to recovery, but the department wanted to do something for him during this time.

“The guys wanted to do a fundraiser to help with expenses not covered by insurance,” he said. “They just want to help with that kind of stuff. Anything that has to do with the arrangement in the home to make things easier for him.”

A few unions, including the local firefighter union have already donated to Jackson’s cause.

“There are some that have already donated,” Howell said. “The racing group out at Atomic City has donated as well.”

The fire that injured Jackson happened during the first week of July at a building located at 1656 West and 200 North in the Rockford area. It was reported in the early afternoon after people in the area had started a controlled burn that spiraled out of control. There were strong winds that day that blew the fire directly at the building, causing it to burn.

Blackfoot firefighters responded to the scene with assistance from other firefighters from Fort Hall and Firth.

Howell said in a statement that Jackson was injured by the falling header of a{span} garage door {/span}after the fire had been mostly extinguished and firefighters were working to put out remaining hot spots.

Jackson was airlifted to Eastern Idaho Regional Medical Center. He was listed as stable and was expected to make a full recovery. He had to go through surgery to repair the injuries he sustained in the accident.

Firefighters remained on the scene until they had extinguished the fire completely at around 7:10 p.m. The fire was contained to the building and no other injuries were reported.

In a statement after the fire, Howell expressed gratitude for the people of Blackfoot for their support for Jackson.

“The Blackfoot Fire Department would like to thank the community for all of their prayers and support, especially the other Southeast Idaho fire departments that have reached out with their support,” he said in the statement.

Anyone who wishes to donate to Dave Jackson can find the contact information on the Blackfoot Fire Department’s Facebook page. Donations can also be made in person.

More information can be found at facebook.com/BlackfootFire .