Credit Union Catches Fire

Fire officials say a blaze last week at a local credit union was caused by a worker using an open flame while repairing a leak in the roof. The incident occurred Thursday, July 11, around 3:05 p.m., at the Fairfax County Federal Credit Union, 4201 Members Way in Fairfax Center.

Firefighters encountered smoke coming from the front and roof of the three-story building upon arrival. The incident Commander then struck a second alarm, bringing more than 60 firefighters to the scene. They initiated an aggressive fire attack from several locations, bringing the fire under control in approximately 20 minutes.

Firefighters also conducted extensive overhaul and salvage operations because of fire in the walls and several void spaces. There were no injuries, but damage is estimated at $40,000.

Helping Keep Children Safe

City of Fairfax police, in conjunction with the Optimist Club of Fairfax, will be offering Safe Assured identification kits for children on Saturday, July 20, from 10 a.m.-4 p.m., at police headquarters at 3730 Old Lee Highway.

Parents will receive a full-color photo ID and a mini-CD containing digital fingerprints, a digital photo, video showing movement and mannerisms, a general physical description, vital personal information and a family code word. Private information is encrypted and accessible only by law-enforcement personnel.

Missing-persons posters can be created and printed directly from the CD in English, Spanish and French. The Safe Assured ID kits can also be used as a valuable aid for adults with special needs. The kits are free and an appointment is necessary. Call Sgt. Kyle Penman at 703-273-2889 for further information and to make appointments.

Recycle During Electric Sunday

Residents may recycle old TVs, computers, peripheral electronic devices such as keyboards, speakers, printers and scanners, and household hazardous wastes including fluorescent light bulbs and tubes for free during Fairfax County’s “Electric Sunday” events. The next one is slated for Sunday, July 21, from 10 a.m.-3 p.m., at the I-66 Transfer Station, 4618 West Ox Road, Fairfax. For more information, call 703-324-5052.

Crime Solvers 5K Fundraiser

In partnership with Capital Area Runners, Fairfax County Crime Solvers is hosting its first 5K run fundraiser and needs the community’s support. Residents are encouraged to sign up now to participate in this family-friendly event; everyone is welcome.

It’s slated for Sunday, Aug. 4, at 8 a.m., on Grand Commons Avenue at the Fairfax Corner Shopping Center, off Monument Drive in Fair Oaks. Register at www.capitalarearunners.com/crimesolvers5k.

A nonprofit, Fairfax County Crime Solvers provides an anonymous phone tip line, plus texting and e-mail capabilities to the public to report criminal information. Tipsters’ identities are protected under state law. This program is not run by the police department, but by business leaders and residents seeking to make this county a safe place to live and visit.

It pays cash rewards of $100 to $1,000 to anonymous tipsters when their information leads to an arrest and indictment. And the reward money comes through fundraisers such as this 5K. Learn more about Crime Solvers at www.fairfaxcrimesolvers.org.

Fairfax Police Citizens Academy

People wanting to participate in the fourth Citizens Police Academy offered by the City of Fairfax Police Department must submit applications no later than Thursday, Aug. 15. This session will run from Thursday, Sept. 5, through Thursday, Nov. 14. Classes are from 6:30-9 p.m.

The Citizens Police Academy offers a unique opportunity to learn about the role of police and their many functions, services and capabilities. Initiated in 2007 by Col. Richard Rappoport, chief of police, the goal is to produce informed citizens and avoid conflicts caused by a lack of understanding.

Applicants must be a city resident or work in the City of Fairfax, be at least 18 and a U.S. citizen and must pass a police background check. Download an application form at http://www.fairfaxva.gov/Police/CitizenPoliceAcademy.asp. For more information, contact Sergeant Kyle Penman at 703-273-2889.