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With a possible winter storm approaching this weekend a lot of people are preparing in case of power outages. Wood stoves and space heaters are a great for warming, but can be dangerous if safety measures are not taken and should be operated with a measure of caution. According to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)  data gathered from 2016 to 2020, space heaters and wood stoves, whether portable or stationary, accounted for 33% of residential house fires . In addition, 88% of residential heating fire civilian deaths  involved space heaters. They contributed to 80% of fire related injuries  and 55% of residential property damage . To reduce the risk of fire, some safety tips are provided below: 🚒🔥 WOOD STOVE SAFETY  🔥🚒 Wood stoves are a great source of heat over open fireplaces, but safety tips should be followed. If purchasing a wood stove make certain it has been tested and is listed with a nationally recognized testing laboratory, such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) . Follow the manufacturer’s recommendations and pay close attention to clearance requirements. If no instructions are available, NFPA suggests clearances should be 36” away from any combustible item , such as curtains or flooring. Install a floor protector that meets the heating appliance manufacturer’s requirements, and extends at least 18” on all sides  of the heater, unless the manufacturer suggests otherwise. Have the chimney and stovepipe cleaned and inspected annually by certified chimney sweeps . Burn only seasoned hardwood or wood pellets in the stove, according to the manufacturer’s directions. Wait until ashes have cooled before removing them and place them away from any structures. Never use a vacuum cleaner to remove ashes from a fireplace or wood stove. Use a metal container , never plastic. Best to douse with water if possible. Make certain to have a working smoke detector  in the home. It is recommended to have one on each level of the home, with the best practice being a working smoke detector in each bedroom . Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors  are also recommended in the home, especially when using fireplaces or wood stoves. Make sure the chimney damper is open  so smoke can travel outside the home. Never use flammable liquids!!!!!!!! 🚒🔥 ELECTRIC SPACE HEATER SAFETY  🔥🚒 Radiant space heaters warm whatever is directly in front of them, while convection heaters can help make an entire room more comfortable. Purchase space heaters that are listed with Underwriters Laboratories (UL) . Select one that cuts off automatically if tipped over. Keep it at least three feet  from any combustible materials such as bedding, curtains, and furniture. Keep children and pets away from space heaters. Place the unit on a level surface . Never dry clothing with a space heater. Do not leave on while sleeping. Use appropriate drop cords per manufacturing recommendations. If a breaker trips while using, do not turn the breaker back on while the unit is plugged in. The circuit may be overloaded; other devices may be drawing too many amps. Best to call a licensed electrician . 🚒🔥 KEROSENE SPACE HEATER SAFETY  🔥🚒 These units can heat a large area in your home. Safety tips should be followed as follows: Purchase units that have been tested and approved by a laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL) . Only use in well-ventilated areas , away from flames or other heat sources. Keep children and pets away from the heater. Use only approved fuel: Clear 1-K grade kerosene , never gasoline. Do not fill with fuel until the unit has cooled off . Refill outdoors . FINAL REMINDER Stay safe and make certain to have fresh batteries and a working smoke detector  in your home. In addition, it’s a great idea to have a home escape plan  with every member of the family in case of a fire emergency in the home. If you have any questions on home safety, please call your local fire department .

The City of Asheboro recently conducted a live burn on a donated structure, and we were proud to have a crew from Franklinville Fire Department  invited to take part. Live fire training like this is invaluable. It gives firefighters real-world experience you simply can’t replicate in a classroom—fire behavior, heat conditions, coordination, and decision-making under pressure. These opportunities sharpen skills and make us better prepared to protect our community when it matters most. A big thank you to the City of Asheboro Fire Department  for the invitation and for investing in high-quality training. Iron sharpens iron. 👨‍🚒🔥

When Franklinville, Randleman, and Asheboro firefighters train together, it isn’t just about checking boxes — it’s about preparing for the moments that test every ounce of skill and grit a firefighter has. Live-fire conditions force crews to navigate smoke-filled, unfamiliar spaces where visibility is nearly zero, heat is punishing, and every decision carries weight. That’s exactly why evolutions like vent-enter-search training are so critical. Lives can depend on firefighters who can make entry fast, move with a purpose, and locate victims in the worst possible conditions. Firefighters spent time during this session studying fire behavior, flow paths, and coordinated attack tactics — the kind of knowledge that keeps crews safe as they push toward the seat of a fire. When multiple departments know each other’s rhythms, strengths, and communication styles, they’re able to operate as one team without hesitation. The purpose behind all of this is simple: to build a stronger, more unified response for our community and to stand ready to assist other departments whenever we’re needed. Training together makes every one of us better—because the people we serve deserve our best.

On Saturday, 11/22, around 11:00am, C-Shift was dispatched to a MVA on US HWY 64 E & Andrew Hunter Rd. Callers advised this would be a rear end collision between a Chrysler 300 and Blue Chevy Impala. Units remained on-scene for approximately 1hr and cleared the scene at 12:02.

Over the last two weeks, members from Franklinville, Asheboro, and Randleman Fire Departments earned certification as Trench Rescue Technicians in the State of North Carolina. Trench operations are among the most dangerous rescue situations we face — unstable soil, heavy equipment, and the clock working against you. Proper training isn’t just important; it’s life or death. Our final scenario drove that point home: rescuing a victim trapped beneath the bucket of an excavator, with the machine overhanging the trench. A dangerous, realistic challenge that tested every ounce of teamwork, training, and calm under pressure. We’re proud of this accomplishment and ready to serve our communities with the knowledge, skill, and respect that trench rescue demands.

On Saturday, June 8th, Franklinville Fire & Rescue hosted an all-day training burn. Fire departments from Siler City, Coleridge, Ramseur, Randleman, and Asheboro participated in this event. The training focused on enhancing skills in search and rescue techniques, hose advancement, fire suppression, building ventilation, and understanding fire behavior. Franklinville Fire Department would like to extend a special thanks to all the depratments who attended.

Vertical ventilation is a critical technique for firefighters, allowing us to quickly remove heat, smoke, and toxic gases from a burning structure. This not only improves visibility for firefighters inside, but also increases the chances of survival for anyone trapped inside. At Franklinville Fire Rescue, we prioritize training on vertical ventilation to enhance our skills and better serve our community in times of need.

Today, A-shift made the most of this beautiful weather with some hands-on rope training! We built a twin tension lowering system, using a double clutch, and practiced with various anchor points. We even converted the system to a haul system, demonstrating how a single rescuer can effectively manage the entire operation. It's crucial to stay sharp and continuously improve our skills to better serve our community. #FirefighterTraining #AlwaysPrepared #FranklinvilleFireRescue

This past Tuesday, Franklinville's bravest took on an intense obstacle course, immersing themselves in challenging scenarios to master the art of navigating confined spaces and operating in pitch-black, "smoke-filled" environments. This rigorous training equips them to self-rescue in life-threatening situations.

It has been a busy year for Franklinville Fire & Rescue!  We are currently on track to finish out the year with a little over 1250 total alarms…But there are still two weeks left and a lot can happen! Click above to watch our 2023 recap video.  Like and subscribe!

Franklinville Fire & Rescue attended Siler Cities 100th Anniversary parade this past weekend and won best appearing and equipped rescue. Judgements were made based on firefighter knowledge, equipment inventory, and organization. Most residents are unaware that Franklinville has one of the only heavy rescues in Randolph County, certified in high angle rope rescue, low angle rope rescue, and heavy vehicle extrication. We take great pride in our equipment and apparatus that are so blessed to have. Special thanks to Siler City for allowing us to participate.