Fire prevention starts with awareness, preparation, and responsibility. Every member of our community plays an important role in helping keep homes, businesses, and families safe from the dangers of fire.
Simple steps can make a life-saving difference. Make sure your home has working smoke alarms on every level and near sleeping areas, and test them monthly. Develop and practice a home fire escape plan so everyone knows at least two ways out of every room. Keep cooking areas clear of flammable materials and never leave cooking unattended.
Electrical safety is also critical—avoid overloading outlets, replace damaged cords, and ensure appliances are used according to manufacturer instructions. When using heating equipment, keep anything that can burn at least three feet away.
In the event of a fire, remember: Get out, stay out, and call 911. Never go back inside a burning building for any reason.
By staying informed and taking preventative measures, we can work together to reduce the risk of fire and protect the lives and property of our community.confident in using a fire extinguisher.
Smoke Detectors
Did you know that a working smoke detector is often the first line of defense in alerting occupants to a house fire?
Unfortunately, statistics show that about 80% of child fire fatalities occur in homes without functioning smoke detectors.
One of the simplest ways to protect your family is to replace the batteries in your smoke alarms at least once a year and test them monthly to ensure they are operating properly.
Families should also create and practice a home fire escape plan. Everyone in the household should know two ways out of every room and understand how to safely exit the home if a fire occurs.
If you live within our district and do not have a working smoke detector, or if your current detector is damaged or outdated, our department will provide and install a replacement smoke detector at no cost to the homeowner.
If you need a smoke detector or have any questions, please contact our Public Information Office at pio@cmvfr.org, or call Crowder’s Mountain Fire & Rescue Station 1 at 704-867-4451. Our personnel will schedule a time to visit your residence and install a smoke detector.
Please Note: If you do not live within our district, we are unfortunately unable to provide a smoke detector at this time. We encourage you to contact the fire department that serves your area for assistance. 🚒🔥
Burn Permits
North Carolina Forestry Service
Burn Permits can be obtained through the North Carolina Forest Service. Please click the button below to be directed to the NC Forest Service website for more information.
Outdoor Burning Fire Safety
Outdoor burning can be useful for clearing yard debris and natural materials, but it must always be done safely and responsibly. Unattended or improperly managed fires can quickly spread and threaten homes, property, and lives.
Before starting any outdoor fire, be sure to check local regulations and obtain any required burn permits. Only burn when weather conditions are safe, avoiding windy or extremely dry days that could allow the fire to spread rapidly.
When burning outdoors, follow these important safety tips:
- Burn only natural vegetation such as leaves, brush, or yard debris. Never burn trash, plastics, or hazardous materials.
- Keep fires a safe distance from structures, vehicles, and wooded areas.
- Always have a water source, garden hose, or fire extinguisher nearby in case the fire begins to spread.
- Never leave a fire unattended. A responsible adult should monitor the fire at all times.
- Make sure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving the area. Stir the ashes and soak them thoroughly with water.
Remember, what starts as a small burn pile can quickly become a dangerous wildfire if not handled properly. Practicing safe outdoor burning helps protect your home, your neighbors, and your community.
If you have questions about burn permits, outdoor burning regulations, or fire safety, please contact our department at 704-867-4451.