The Fayetteville Fire Department (FFD) is excited to announce a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing public safety and deepening community engagement throughout the second quarter of 2024.  

Among the notable developments is the hiring of Mary Murphy, the department's first Community Risk Reduction Specialist. Murphy’s role will focus on advancing community-wide safety education and developing targeted programs to address specific risks in high-priority zones. Her efforts will be central in implementing data-driven strategies to reduce hazards across the city. 

"The Fayetteville Fire Department strives daily to find and adapt to innovation and enhancements that ultimately make our community safer and more resilient,” said Fayetteville Fire Chief Kevin Dove in a press release. “This includes not only response to emergencies but proactive measures to educate the community and reduce the effects of emergencies that do take place." 

The FFD has also installed electric vehicle fire blankets in city-owned parking decks. These specialized blankets, which were also placed in Cape Fear Valley Medical Center's parking deck through a partnership with the medical center, are designed to contain and suppress electric vehicle fires. 

The department also marked the successful completion of the Community Emergency Response Team (CERT) Teen Academy in June. Eighteen high school students participated in the

week-long program, learning about emergency prevention, safety protocols and life skills. 

In addition to these advancements, the FFD continued its strong commitment to fire prevention and safety initiatives. During the second quarter of 2024, the department installed 694 smoke alarms, replaced 29 batteries and installed 80 carbon monoxide detectors and 16 stove-top fire suppression systems. These efforts are part of the department's ongoing mission to prevent fires and reduce harm in the community. The FFD also participated in 385 in-person outreach events, impacting over 24,000 residents of Fayetteville. 

The Fayetteville Fire Department remains dedicated to safeguarding the community through innovative practices, collaborative partnerships and a strong focus on education and prevention. 

For more information about the Fayetteville Fire Department for programs, events or job opportunities, visit 

fayettevillenc.gov/fire  or visit your neighborhood fire station.