Station 181 leaving the light on for law enforcement officers

Cahaba Valley Fire and Emergency Medical Rescue District Station 181 is leaving blue lights on for law enforcement officers.

The lights are intended to signify an ongoing support of law enforcement officers and will be on 24 hours a day through the end of July. There is a camaraderie between emergency responders, said CVFD Public Information Officer Grant Wilkinson, and this support is like a brother or sister supporting their sibling.

“We’re one big family and when one of us is not in the best position, we like to support each other,” Wilkinson said.

Wilkinson said the lights not only show support, but also signify the station is a place where law enforcement officers can stop by and feel safe for a quick break.

“We’re having the lights on to show support for them and also to designate that if they want to come in, our facilities are open to them,” he said.

Station 181 is a large station, Wilkinson said, and has plenty of room for Shelby County Sheriff’s Office Deputies, Hoover Police Officers, State Patrol Officers or other members of law enforcement to come by and rest, complete a report or just visit.

“While they are with us, we will have their back and for a short period of time they can let down their defenses and rest,” said a press release from the department.

The idea came from Lt. Stephen Gaither, an officer with CFVD, who saw it in Sylacauga. As soon as Gaither brought the idea to the station, Wilkinson said they were ready to implement it.

While the announcement for the blue lights, which started glowing on July 20, has received positive feedback, Wilkinson said that is not the goal.

"Our goal is not to be commented on, just to be there for them if they need it,” he said.

Station 181 is located at 5487 Highway 280.