Cumberland County Emergency Services received a $4,995 grant from South River Electric Membership Corporation (EMC) Monday, March 17, 2025, at the Emergency Services Center, located at 500 Executive Place in Fayetteville. The funds will be used to purchase smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms, which will be distributed to volunteer fire departments across the County.

The grant was awarded through South River EMC’s Operation Round Up Program. Catherine O’Dell, Vice President of Member Services and Public Relations for South River EMC, presented the check to Cumberland County. The smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are available free of charge to Cumberland County residents in need.

“As the Fire Marshal for Cumberland County, my highest priority is ensuring the safety of our citizens and our community,” said Kevin Lowther, Cumberland County Fire Marshal in a press release. “Properly installed and maintained smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives. We urge every household to participate in this program and stay vigilant.”

Residents who wish to obtain smoke or carbon monoxide alarms may contact the fire department in their district. A list of Cumberland County Fire Departments can be found by visiting cumberlandcouuntync.gov/fire-marshal. Alarms must be installed by a firefighter. A home safety risk assessment, conducted by the local fire department, will also be provided free of charge.

Residents can fill out a survey at bit.ly/41CxlG5 or call 910-321-6625 to request a free smoke or carbon monoxide alarm. For more information, visit the Fire Marshal’s webpage at cumberlandcountync.gov/fire-marshal.

South River EMC is an electric distribution cooperative headquartered in Dunn, N.C. The cooperative serves more than 47,000 customers in Bladen, Cumberland, Harnett, Johnston and Sampson counties.