Cedar City’s fire chief was seriously burned during a live-fire exercise on Sept. 16. Chief Mike Phillips sustained burns to his face and arms after jet fuel prematurely ignited during a drill. The incident took place during a regional training that involved over 800 firefighters.
Phillips was taken to the University of Utah Hospital for treatment and is expected to remain there for several weeks. Phillips will receive skin grafts to the areas significantly burned.
While the incident is under investigation, the Cedar City community hosted a barbecue dinner and silent auction to support Phillips.
“Chief Phillips has always been there for us. Now it’s our turn to be there for him,” said one attendee. Phillips is reportedly doing well while in recovery.
While the money raised was to help with the medical bills, it also goes to Phillips’ family to help with travel expenses. His children rotate visiting weekends to help care for their dad.
Phillips has worked for the fire department for over 25 years.
Author: Matthew Hendricks
Photo courtesy of Erick Cox
Editor: Hannah Clove
news@suunews.net
