By any measure Asheville’s catastrophic Flood of 1916 stands as “The Flood by Which All Other Floods Are Measured.” When two tropical storms converged on the mountains in tandem that summer — one from the Gulf in June followed by another from the Atlantic in July — the water that thundered in its wake wasn’t [...]
On July 9, friends, family and colleagues gathered to mark the retirement of Sgt. Danny Holden and celebrate his 20 years with the Asheville Police Department. Holden has a law enforcement career under his belt that totals nearly 30 years, having come to the APD from the Transylvania County Sheriff’s Department in 1992. In 1999, he [...]
With a new year comes new programs, facility improvements and projects to improve our community. Here’s a look ahead at Asheville City government initiatives in 2019. Red Pandas exhibit to open Two cute red pandas will take up residence at the WNC Nature Center this year. The new red panda exhibit will open to the public on [...]
With a new year comes new programs, facility improvements and projects to improve our community. Here’s a look ahead at 10 Asheville City government initiatives as we ring in not only a new year, but a new decade in 2020. Civic Center gets Harrah’s Cherokee name The year 2020 will start with excitement for the newly named Harrah’s Cherokee Center — [...]
Keep safe with these fire and life safety helpful resources.
October is Fire Prevention month, and the week of October 6-13 is a week to focus on fire prevention. The Asheville Fire Department has kicked it off with these tips for preventing kitchen fires: It’s time for Fire Prevention Week, and from October 6-12 the Asheville Fire Department is joining forces with the nonprofit National Fire [...]
Twenty fire engines from departments throughout Buncombe County – including four trucks from the Asheville Fire Department – have been outfitted with equipment that drastically cuts back on their emissions of particulate matter, hydrocarbons and carbon monoxide. The upgrades, announced November 19 at Fire Station One in downtown Asheville, come thanks to a $31,500 North Carolina [...]
Asheville Public Works crews cleaned mud off the streets of Biltmore Village Wednesday afternoon and evening, following flooding May 30, 2018. Following this week’s flooding of the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers, only 1 street remained closed in Asheville Friday morning. Now it is open too. The portion of Lyman Street closed by flooding earlier this week has been reopened. [...]
Looking for an easy way to help police or fire and rescue responders get to you in an emergency? Make sure your home or business’ street number is on display and visible from the road. “Anytime first responders, police fire or medical personnel, are responding to calls for service, their response time is reduced when addresses [...]
ASHEVILLE – The Asheville Police Department hosted the 2011 BadgeBall softball tournament Aug. 13-14 to raise money for the Fallen Firefighters Fund and North Carolina Special Olympics. Games were played the first day at Jackson Park in Henderson County, and the championship games were Sunday at McCormick Field in Asheville. The team from Henderson County took the [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is recruiting middle-school age kids for its summer camp to be held June 24 – 26. This a great way for kids to have fun and learn what it is like to be a City of Asheville firefighter. Click here for the 2013 Fire Escape Application. Apply by June 7. Below [...]
On October 4, the City of Asheville launched an interactive project called “Asheville Asks, Asheville Answers.” Every few weeks, the City of Asheville will post a special logo on its Facebook page, inviting people to post questions they have about the city in the comments section. Answers by city staff are recorded on video [...]
September is Emergency Preparedness Month. Let's make it an opportunity to strengthen our preparedness and protect what matters most.
September is Emergency Preparedness Month. Take time to prepare yourself, your family and your home before you face an emergency
Exciting news from the Asheville Fire Department: Battalion Chief Joy Ponder has been awarded a scholarship to the Fire Service Executive Development Institute, a year-long program designed to advance the leadership development of firefighters serving at the top of their field. Ponder is a graduate of the four-year National Fire Academy Executive Fire Officer Program [...]
Design will move forward for a new fire station planned on a property at 316 Broadway St. near Mount Clare Avenue. At their Nov. 12 meeting, Asheville City Council authorized a $407,567 contract for expansion of design services of Fire Station 13 by Charlotte-based ADW Architects. The funding was already included in the City’s Capital Improvement [...]
At its June 28 meeting Asheville City Council passed the City Managers recommended budget with a 6 to 1 vote. The $217 million budget is based on internal work, community input and Council priorities, and reflects the long term strategies and continuation of the reimagining public safety process.
The streets are closed and crowded during Bele Chere, but that can’t stop Asheville Fire and Rescue from being able to get to people if there is a problem that needs its attention. That’s why two pairs of City of Asheville firefighters are roving the festival on bicycles. Bele Chere marks the only regular event [...]
The City of Asheville is proud to announce that two of the organization’s top leadership have been recognized by professional associations as top practitioners in their field. Asheville Fire Department Chief Scott Burnette was awarded Career Fire Chief of the Year by the North Carolina Fire Chiefs Association at a Feb. 8 ceremony. This is the [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is accepting application for its Citizens Fire Academy. This program is designed to teach adult residents 18 years and older about the philosophy, policies, and guiding principles of the Asheville Fire Department and its services to the community. It gives citizens an inside look at the challenges firefighters face daily. Residents [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is accepting applications for its Citizens Fire Academy, which will start March 27. The academy lasts nine consecutive weeks consisting of three hour classes held on Wednesday evenings from 5:30 – 8:30 p.m. with an additional day for graduation. The Citizens Fire Academy teaches adult residents 18 years and older about the [...]
The Asheville Fire Department will hold its annual fire summer camp, Fire Escape, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 25-28. Designed for rising sixth- through eighth-graders, this free summer series is a highly interactive camp filled with great hands on activities. Fire Escape Camp is limited to 30 students who will be selected based on [...]
Kick off Event of the child passenger safety awareness week. The event will be held on September 24th, from 10:00 to 14:00 hours, at 800 Brevard Rd Avl. Outlets, next to Sportsman’s Warehouse.
The Asheville Fire Department is proud to announce the promotions of three of its Chief Officers into key leadership positions. Wayne Hamilton and Barry Hendren have each been promoted to the position of Assistant Fire Chief, and Chris Budzinski will now serve as Deputy Fire Chief. “We are very excited about the new leadership team, and anticipate [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is excited to announce a partnership with Black Mountain-based Paws & Effect to integrate a facility dog, Denali, into one of its local fire stations. Traditionally, dogs were used to provide companionship and safety for horses used to transport equipment from a station to a fire. While horses are no longer a [...]
As the sun began to set on Asheville Fire Station 7 in North Asheville on Sept. 8, three groups of teenagers were going through drills: rolling out and connecting fire hoses, reviewing knots used on fire scenes, and seeing how quickly they could put on full firefighter gear. In upcoming weeks, the Explorers will run [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is accepting applications for its second Citizens Fire Academy, following last year’s inaugural program. During an eight-week course running March 29 through May participants will get an up-close look at the many facets of AFD operations. There will be a hazmat day, medical day, rescue operations session, ladder truck operations day [...]
Meet a firefighter. Sign up for smoke alarm installation. And learn what you can do to prevent a fire in your home or what to do if one breaks out. The Asheville Fire Department invites the whole family to come out for AFD’s Fire Prevention Week kickoff event, happening from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Sept. [...]
The Asheville Fire Department hosted a Hose Uncoupling Ceremony (ribbon cutting) at Fire Sation #4 on May 18 to celebrate the renovations and opening of the station. Previously, the Asheville Fire Department’s Fire Station #4 shared operational facilities with Skyland Fire & Rescue. Due to the need for both departments to expand, AFD initiated a renovation [...]
The Asheville Fire Department assembled a team of eight firefighters to join the Buncombe County Task Force 2 Urban Search and Rescue Team (BCTF2 USAR) on a deployment assignment to Kinston, N.C., for standby to assist in emergency support due to probable effects of Tropical Storm Isaias. Isaias is projected to make landfall off the [...]
Asheville’s firefighters have already trained in high places, including hanging out around the Civic Center rafters. This week, they were down in the trenches. Wednesday found the Asheville Fire Department conducting trench training at Mountainside Park near Asheville’s Memorial Stadium. In a trench freshly dug by the City of Asheville Water Maintenance division (and [...]
The Asheville Fire Department learned that the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) unanimously approved to grant them accredited status at a public hearing this week in Orlando, Fla. Accreditation is a comprehensive self-assessment and evaluation that enables the department to examine service delivery and compare it to the industry standards. It [...]
In December, 2012, the Asheville Fire Department responded to an auto accident on Lyman Street in which a vehicle wound up upside down in the French Broad River with the driver trapped inside. The team of firefighters that worked the scene would grow to 16 strong, and involved water rescue and dive team personnel, but they [...]
For some, the ceremony held September 11 by the Asheville Fire Department was recognition of achievement and the effort they have given to the department and community. For others it was the beginning of a new career and life as a firefighter. But for each person at the ceremony, the day was a reminder and celebration [...]
The Asheville Fire Department has been working closely with technology partner First Due to release Community Connect, a website focused on protecting residents and their property in the most effective way possible during an incident or major disaster. Community Connect is a secure, easy-to-use website that allows residents to share critical information about their [...]
On Saturday, September 11, members of the Asheville Fire Department and their families gathered at the Grove Park Inn to participate in a ceremony commemorating firefighters who served and died in the 2001 attacks at the World Trade Center in New York City. The ceremony was presided over by Asheville Fire Chief Scott Burnette, who [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Serve Up Fire Safety in the Kitchen!” The campaign works to educate [...]
The Asheville Fire Department responded to a possible structure fire off Old Chunns Cove Road just before 7 a.m. May 31. When companies arrived on the scene they noticed light smoke coming from one of the units in a duplex of four separate homes. When firefighters entered the building they observed that the residential sprinkler system had [...]
The Asheville Fire Department will join forces to help support our Asheville Fire Fighters Association Local 332 with an Operation Warm coat distribution 1 p.m. Dec. 17 Hall Fletcher Elementary. Over 100 new, American- and union-made coats will be delivered and given to selected children in need of assistance. Joint fundraising and donations were received from [...]
The Asheville Fire Department supports the national Pink Heals Tour as it makes its way into Asheville on Friday, August 7, starting at 10:30 a.m. AFD will meet the tour at the City line near Canton and will proudly lead the tour to the Asheville Outlets for a celebration event open to the public from [...]
A working smoke alarm can be a lifesaver in the home. That is the message being spread this month by the Asheville Fire Department through educational events and visits to area schools. “We have seen many families who have safely escaped danger because their smoke alarms alerted them about a fire” says Kelley Webb, AFD Fire [...]
The Asheville Fire Department was chosen by the Red Cross as one of only 100 Signature Cities to team up to install smoke alarms and provide education on getting out of your home if there is a fire. The City was chosen to participate in the Sound the Alarm program. When a fire [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is requesting the authorization to apply for a FEMA Firefighters Grant of $130,910 to provide funding to purchase two air compressors to allow greater accessibility to fill air bottles used by firefighters during operation at a fire scene. During their June 22 meeting, Asheville City Council authorized a resolution for the City [...]
Ten years ago on July 28, 2011, Asheville Fire Captain Jeff Bowen, a 13-year veteran, lost his life while battling an arson fire in a high-rise building at 445 Biltmore Ave. The Asheville Fire Department will hold a remembrance ceremony on July 28, 2021, to honor our brother. This ceremony will be held at 9:30 [...]
Today’s home fires burn faster than ever. In a typical home fire, you may have as little as one to two minutes to escape safely from the time the smoke alarm sounds. Knowing how to use that time wisely takes planning and practice. The Asheville Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) ‑‑ the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week™ for more than 90 years ‑‑ [...]
The Norfolk Southern hazmat safety train will be in Asheville on August 7-11 delivering training to the Asheville Fire Department and other area first responders. The train consists of a distinct engine honoring police, fire and emergency services; two boxcars converted into classrooms; and four types of tank cars. WHAT: AFD to participate in Norfolk Southern [...]
Asheville’s firefighters got an up-close look last week at the inner workings of vehicles that transport potentially hazardous chemicals along highways and rail lines. Over three days, the Asheville Fire Department learned the ins and outs of tanker trucks and tractor trailers that transport anhydrous ammonia, a chemical that is used in agriculture, wastewater treatment, [...]
The Asheville Fire Department proudly accepted the Community Service award for 2021 from the International Critical Incident Stress Foundation (ICISF) at their virtual World Congress 16 conference held May 25-27. The WNC Peer Support Network nominated AFD based on our proactive approach to resilience and mental [...]
Each Fourth of July, thousands of people, most often children and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. Despite the dangers of fireworks, few people understand the associated risks – devastating burns, other injuries, fires, and even death. That’s why the Asheville Fire Department recommends leaving the fireworks to the professionals. We are excited to [...]
Each Fourth of July 4, thousands of people, most often kids and teens, are injured while using consumer fireworks. On a typical Fourth of July, there are more fires nationally than on any other day of the year, with fireworks accounting for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of [...]
Unattended cooking is a leading cause of house fires, according to the Asheville Fire Department. The Asheville Fire Department responded to a fire alarm activation at a residence this past week, forced entry and found food left on the stove. Thanks to the fire alarm, which was monitored by an outside agency, and the quick response [...]
October is Fire Prevention Month, but the Asheville Fire Department already has an important message about the difference a sprinkler system can make in reducing fire damage. From the AFD FireLine page: On September 24, 2012 the Asheville Fire Department was dispatched to 9091 Verde Vista Cr. in response to a reported structure fire. Crews arrived on [...]
As you start preparing your holiday schedule and organizing that large family feast, remember, by following a few simple safety tips you can enjoy time with your loved ones and keep yourself and your family safer from fire. Top 10 safety tips Stay in the kitchen when you are cooking on the stovetop so you can keep [...]
Did you know that more than a third of home decoration fires are started by candles? The Asheville Fire Department shares these holiday safety tips from the National Fire Protection Association.
Asheville Fire Department Division Chief Joy Ponder, third from left, stands with her crew, which has been very supportive as she battled cancer herself. Update: On Feb. 24, 2018, Asheville Fire Department Division Chief Joy Ponder finished the Black Mountain Marathon in 7 hours, 26 minutes, 13 seconds. Related coverage, Citizen-Times video of Joy Ponder and AFD Chief Scott Burnette:
Asheville Fire investigators will have more tools to dig into debris to determine the origin and cause of fires under a FEMA grant accepted by Asheville City Council during their Sept. 22 meeting. The FEMA’s Fire Prevention & Safety Grant will provide specialized equipment for AFD’s Fire Marshal investigators, such as mobile software for documentation (iPads), [...]
This spring, the City of Asheville Fire Department took up a nation-wide challenge to see which of its three battalions, throughout the department’s 12 stations, could make the biggest reduction in energy use over a three-month period. With the results tallied in June, the winner is Battalion 2 with a total energy reduction of [...]
The Asheville Fire Department will participate in its first Asheville Fire Truck Festival from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Sunday, April 22, in the parking lot of the Family Justice Center, 35 Woodfin St. This family event will include fire trucks from the Asheville Fire Department, along with at least a dozen other trucks [...]
Hey Asheville, have you wondered what kind of fire truck AFD’s dual driver ladder truck is? It’s called a tiller truck or a tractor drawn aerial (TDA). This hook-and-ladder truck features a specialized turntable ladder mounted on a semi-trailer truck. Ladder 1 was purchased for $1.2 million back in 2019. It runs out of the downtown [...]
An Elon University poll released Feb. 9 shows that 12 percent of North Carolinians say they have already received the COVID-19 vaccine and another 45 percent say they will get vaccinated once the shots are available to them. That’s an increase from 33 percent in favor of the vaccine in October and 40.5 [...]
Asheville Fire Department Engineer Will Willis died in February 2018 due to cancer. The Asheville Fire Department is elated to share the news that the N.C. Industrial Commission has ruled that AFD’s Engineer Will Willis, who died in February due to cancer, is considered a line of duty death. Not only will his family receive survivor benefits, but [...]
Twelve Asheville firefighters participated in a grueling challenge last weekend: the Blue Ridge Relay. Happening Sept. 11-12, the 208-mile Blue Ridge Relay (BRR208) is one of the longest-running relay races in the United States. Members of Asheville’s 12-man team will rotate through 36 transition areas as they cover the 208-mile distance of the race. The scenery couldn’t [...]
Twelve Asheville Fire Department employees will compete in the Blue Ridge Relay this weekend. This marks the sixth year that a team of firefighters from AFD have completed the 208 mile course. Typically finishing in about 26 hours; each athlete will run an average of 17 miles. The team will be competing with 175 other teams from across the [...]
When your job can involve any dangerous scenario from burning buildings to high-rise rescues, you never stop preparing, says Asheville Fire Department Division Chief of Safety and Training Barry Hendren. “We’re always ready to do training for the unexpected,” says Hendren. “It just helps us be better prepared for what comes our way.” In recent months, the [...]
Red Cross volunteers, Asheville firefighters, AmeriCorps volunteers to install FREE smoke alarms and educate West Asheville residents on home fire prevention Asheville firefighters, American Red Cross volunteers and AmeriCorps volunteers will spend Saturday, May 7, walking door-to-door installing free smoke alarms and distributing fire safety information to residents in neighborhoods surrounding Hall Fletcher Elementary School. They will [...]
From 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. August 3, media representatives are invited to attend rapid deployment training. The training, which has involved the Asheville Police Department, Asheville Fire Department and Buncombe County Emergency Medical Services, will take place at the Career Technical Education building beside Asheville High School (419 McDowell St., Asheville). There will be opportunity [...]
The Asheville Fire Department will hold its annual fire summer camp, Fire Escape, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 19-22. Designed for middle school children ages 11 to 13, this free summer series is a highly interactive camp filled with great hands on activities. Most activities are conducted in pairs or teams, in which the [...]
The Asheville Police Department celebrated the graduation of its Fall Citizen’s Police Academy class on December 15, with 25 people graduating from the program. The program allows citizens to gain an understanding of the police department and how it operates. The Citizen’s Police Academy is a 14-week program in which participants can experience up close and [...]
Looking to begin your career in law enforcement or in fire/rescue? Then you’re in luck! The Asheville Police Departments is hiring. But you need to act fast. The APD is hiring for the position of Police Officer Trainee. Testing for this position will be offered on June 23 and 28. The written test will be held at [...]
Firefighters and police officers from North and South Carolina will cycle approximately 460 miles in five days to pay tribute to fallen brothers and sisters from the Carolinas. Riders will head out on July 25 from Columbia, S.C., and will end their journey on July 29 Raleigh. Several Asheville Firefighters and Asheville Police Officers are among [...]
The Asheville Police Department, in partnership with the Asheville Fire Department and Buncombe County EMS, are participating in a rapid deployment exercise at the current Isaac Dickson Elementary School (90 Montford Avenue) today, June 28, and Wednesday, June 29, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. During this exercise officers, firefighters and emergency medical technicians will be [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is experiencing an increase in call volume, due to heavy rain conditions. The following road are closed: Amboy Road – Mud slide/tree down in road Skyview Place – Mud slide Azalea Road East is closed from Tunnel Road to the fish pond – Flooding Cambridge Road – Utility issues Springdale and Richard – Large tree Road now reopened: Biltmore [...]
Updated information: The City of Asheville Street Division has closed Skyview Place near 1 Skyview Place due to a mudslide. City staff are working to ensure residents can access their property. The repairs are expected to continue into next week. Street Division crews are working to clear mud off of Azalea Road today. The Cambridge Road mudslide has [...]
This Google map images shows Tropical Depression Florence’s location Sunday evening. A day of nonstop rain from Tropical Depression Florence brought some flooding to the Asheville area Sunday and overnight into Monday. Sunday evening, the City of Asheville closed Azalea Road as the Swannanoa River has begun to rise. Also, the Asheville Fire Department performed a swift-water rescue of [...]
On Friday, June 18, Asheville Fire Department wrapped up its first annual fire camp for kids. The day camp, which was held June 16-18 at the Asheville Firefighters Association Camp off Clayton Road, gave 18 boys and girls the opportunity to learn more about the tools and skills firefighters use, and even let them get [...]
More snow than we thought could be coming. During a joint press conference and community briefing on winter storm response, Buncombe County and City of Asheville officials shared safety messages and updates on what to expect. As the snow began falling outside Buncombe County Emergency Services Headquarters, Director Jerry VeHaun shared information from a conference call Saturday [...]
A hazardous materials spill from a train car is a scenario Asheville’s firefighters hope never happens. But if it does, the department’s HAZMAT team knows how to handle it. The team, alongside teams from Charlotte, Fayetteville and Greensboro, put their skill to the test during a May 12 drill in the Norfolk Southern rail [...]
Local firefighters run in gear and compete for Siller Cup The Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation 5K Run/Walk hosts its Tunnel to Towers 5K Run/Walk nationwide each year. This year, the Asheville Tunnel to Towers 5K is set for Aug. 19. Tunnel to Towers is dedicated to the memory of FDNY hero, and father of five, Stephen Siller, who lost his life on 9/11. Stephen, who was [...]
View of the French Broad River from the Clingman Avenue bridge Monday, Sept. 17. The sun is shining and the Swannanoa and French Broad rivers are in their banks following Sunday’s nonstop rain from Tropical Depression Florence. The storm brought minor flooding to the Asheville area Sunday, Sept. 16. Sunday evening, the City of Asheville closed Azalea Road as [...]
#4: Find your way One of the best parts of Bele Chere is wandering around the festival, running into unexpected friends and searching for treasures in artist booths or stumbling upon a fantastic street performer. But sometimes, you want to get somewhere right now, be it a band or a bathroom, and you need to know how [...]
The Asheville Fire Department supports the upcoming Bowen 7 Memorial workout to honor our fallen brother, Captain Jeff Bowen. On July 28, 2011, Captain Bowen gave his life in the line of duty while responding to a fire in a high rise medical office building at 445 Biltmore Ave. This year’s event will hosted by Beer City [...]
Asheville Fire Department Captain Jeff Bowen, who died in the line of duty while battling a 2011 blaze, was memorialized Aug. 15 with the renaming of a bridge that spans the French Broad River in Asheville. In a ceremony attended by hundreds, including firefighters from Asheville and many other areas, a sign recognizing the Capt. Jeff [...]
Update: At 2 p.m. today, Buncombe County and the City of Asheville will conduct a joint press and community briefing on winter storm response, and safety messages. The briefing will be streamed live on the City’s Facebook page. Did someone say Winter Storm Warning? The City of Asheville is ready! With the National [...]
On Friday, August 16, the Carolina Brotherhood, a group of firefighters, police officers and emergency personnel riding 700 miles across North and South Carolina in honor of their fallen comrades, rode into downtown Asheville on their way to their final stop in Boone. The group of bicyclists included Asheville’s own Landon Davis, Dan Flinn, Joe Hallam, [...]
ASHEVILLE – The City of Asheville Youth Leadership Academy (CAYLA) fosters success stories for students year after year. From 2008-2011, the total scholarship money awarded to CAYLA students was more than $400,000. In addition, 100 percent of CAYLA students in 2008-2010, as well as the 2011 graduating class have been accepted to college. The below vignettes focus [...]
Get help from The Asheville Fire Department with child safety seat installation education and assistance.
ASHEVILLE – Local leaders say the community is best served during emergencies and national disasters when area governments work together, sharing information and resources under the unified goal of lessening risks and hazards to the public. This type of cooperation has a name: hazard mitigation. On Tuesday, Asheville City Council approved a resolution adopting the latest [...]
Learn about job opportunities with the Asheville Fire Department, including hiring process and eligibility requirements to become a firefighter.
With a new year comes new programs, facility improvements and projects to improve our community. Here’s a look ahead at Asheville City government initiatives in 2018. We couldn’t get the list down to 10 items so here are a dozen to look for in the coming year. New, more diverse City Council Asheville City Council 2018: Standing, left to right, are Keith Young, [...]
Event honors those who perished on 9/11 Among the promises made by Americans after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, was to pay homage to those who perished, and to never allow the heroism and resilience displayed by Americans in the aftermath to be forgotten. As we near the 15th anniversary of 9/11, the City of [...]
Due to a number of incidents impacting public safety, the City of Asheville is taking targeted steps to address the rise of crime especially in downtown Asheville. There are complex circumstances contributing to the safety issues that Asheville is currently seeing downtown and it will take a community response to address these complexities. Multiple City [...]
Fire Chief Scott Burnette is retiring after serving the community for over 28 years, with the last 14 years as fire chief. His last day will be June 1, 2023. “Chief Burnette has been an incredible leader both to his department and the organization as a whole,” said City Manager Debra Campbell. “Through his years of [...]
Recently the City of Asheville “flipped the switch” on a photovoltaic array, commonly known as solar panels, at the Linwood Crump Shiloh Community Center on Shiloh Road. This is the fifth City facility to include onsite renewable energy production. This completes the City’s portion of projects included in the joint initiative to install solar panels on City of Asheville, Buncombe County, Asheville City Schools, Buncombe County Schools and AB-Tech facilities.
After several months of firefighter training that was both mentally and physically challenging, 21 new recruits of the Asheville Fire Department graduated to join with firefighters currently serving the Asheville community. March 23 was graduation night for these members. But before ceremonies and celebrations, came the hours of hard work and a committment to the dedication required [...]
The City of Asheville is pleased to announce that Deputy Finance Director Eric Hardy and Asheville Fire Department Public Information Officer Kelley Klope have both been selected to attend the 32nd Leadership Asheville Class beginning in September. Leadership Asheville, operated through UNC Asheville is an important resource to the community, with participants honing leadership and collaborative [...]
The NC Commissioner of Insurance and State Fire Marshal Mike Causey announced today that the Asheville Fire Department improved its fire rating from Class 2 to Class 1. This improved fire suppression rating means not only is AFD better equipped to respond to emergencies, the new top rating should continue to significantly reduce insurance rates in [...]
Asheville, NC (November 30, 20201) — Due to increased fire risk, the N.C. Forest Service has issued a ban on all open burning and has canceled all burning permits statewide (ALL counties) which went into effect at 5 p.m., 11/29/2021 and remains in effect until further notice. Due to the low humidity, lack of rain, and higher winds the [...]
Fire stations in East and West Asheville will soon get their hot water from newly installed solar panels, announced the City of Asheville’s Office of Sustainability. On September 16, technicians from Asheville-based Sundance Power Systems installed two collector panels atop Asheville Fire and Rescue’s Station 8 on Tunnel Road. Similar panels were set to be [...]
In times of crisis, it is sometimes our neighbors who see us through. Other times, it takes the compassion and professionalism of those further afield to help weather the storm. That was certainly the case for several members called up to help support and supplement Vermont resources battling flooding in the state. Our team of Isaac [...]
With the National Weather Service predicting a wintry mix of snow, sleet and possible ice Saturday through Monday, the City of Asheville is preparing its storm response. The City of Asheville is preparing a coordinated response with our community partners, including NCDOT, Duke Energy and Buncombe County Emergency Management. Public Works crews have been fitting trucks with [...]
The City of Asheville held a 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony at 10:30 a.m. Sept. 11 in front of the Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. The ceremony was in remembrance of the 2,996 people who died during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and on hijacked United Airlines Flight 93. The ceremony opened [...]
With the new year at hand, we at the City of Asheville thought it would be a good time to take stock of some 2016 initiatives. Guided by City Council’s 2036 Vision, here are 10 areas where we enhanced service to our citizens. Voters pass bond resolutions On Election Day, Nov. 8, Asheville voters [...]
In response to feedback from downtown stakeholders about the need for increased resources to maintain a welcoming, safe downtown experience, the City of Asheville has launched a Community EMT Pilot Program. The vision is for this six-week pilot program to integrate the roles of public safety official and medical responder into one team. Under this pilot [...]
How might you like our new fire station to look? The City of Asheville has launched a visual preference survey on a planned Fire Station 13. In this survey on Open City Hall Asheville, participants will be asked to select up to three images that illustrate their preferred design styles. The City of [...]
As remnants of Tropical Storm Fred hit the Asheville area yesterday and into the night, many City of Asheville departments worked in coordination to keep the people of our community safe. The City activated the emergency operations center early afternoon on Tuesday, Aug. 17, in order to best coordinate City efforts and to work in [...]
Latest Hurricane Florence storm track. Updated information includes: Hurricane Florence has weakened slightly to Category 3 hurricane, with winds near 125 mph (201 kph). It is still considered “extremely dangerous.” How Asheville Fire Department is helping in the storm zone. Link for shelters in the storm zone. The City of Asheville continues to monitor the path of Hurricane Florence and [...]
The City of Asheville offices will be closed in observance of Memorial Day, May 30, a federally designated holiday that honors military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties while serving in the United States Armed Forces. Here is a roundup of other City services affected by this holiday, as well as [...]
In observance of the Labor Day Holiday, City of Asheville offices will be closed September 5, 2022. Here is a look at how City services will be affected. ART bus services The City of Asheville ART service routes and facilities will operate on a holiday schedule Monday, Sept. 5, which is the same as the Sunday bus [...]
On June 20, 2022 Asheville City offices will be closed in observance of Juneteenth, also known as Freedom Day or Emancipation Day. Juneteenth, officially observed each year on June 19, marks the day in 1865 when enslaved African-Americans in Galveston, Texas, were told they were free, marking the end of slavery in the United States. Congress [...]
Those of us who live, work, and play in and around Asheville know how magical our mountain city can be. We all have ideas and opinions on how to keep it that way – or even make it better. One way to share those ideas with City leaders is to take part in City issued surveys [...]
Cold temperatures and possible snow are headed this way over the weekend. The US National Weather Service currently forecasts snow developing across the southern Appalachians late Saturday into Sunday. Significant snow accumulations are possible, especially across the northern mountains and higher elevations above 3500 feet. Uncertainty remains regarding exact snowfall totals. As the National Weather Service [...]
The remnants of Tropical Storm Sally are expected to pass close enough to western North Carolina to bring periods of heavy rain Thursday morning into Friday morning. Because of this, the National Weather Service has issued a Flash Flood Watch to include Buncombe County. The City of Asheville is ready. Public Works [...]
A Stormwater Services crew removes silt, dirt and debris from storm drains atop Town Mountain July 31. In advance of heavy rains this week, the City of Asheville is prepared! The Water Resources Department is following the Flood Operation Plan at the North Fork Reservoir. One gate is slightly opened (6 inches) to accommodate present and anticipated precipitation to [...]
The City of Asheville wants to hear from you about the creation of two emergency operations plans. In working to advance the City Council’s priority of building neighborhood resilience, the Asheville Fire Department is coordinating the efforts to update the City of Asheville’s Emergency Operations Plan and the Continuity of Operations Plan. This work involves [...]
On September 30, the City of Asheville “flipped the switch” on the photovoltaic array, commonly known as solar panels, at Fire Station 10 on Old Haywood Road. This is the second City facility to include renewable energy production, the first being the Transit Station on Coxe Avenue. This is also part of [...]
A visual preference survey for Fire Station 13 on Open City Hall Asheville recently closed, with 464 responses from the community. The new fire station is planned for property owned by the City on Broadway Street near Mount Clare Avenue. Survey results showed that: 38% of the participants preferred a transitional or contemporary building [...]
Asheville Police Chief Tammy Hooper is shown making remarks during a previous 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony. The City of Asheville will hold a 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at the City Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. This event is to pay solemn tribute to those who heroically sacrificed their own lives to save thousands of [...]
The City of Asheville will hold a 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at the City Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. This event is to pay solemn tribute to those who heroically sacrificed their own lives to save thousands of others, and to remember those who helped in the rescue-recovery efforts that followed [...]
The City of Asheville will hold a 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at the City Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. This event is to pay solemn tribute to those who heroically sacrificed their own lives to save thousands of others, and to remember those who helped in the rescue-recovery efforts that followed [...]
The City of Asheville will hold a 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony at 8:30 a.m. Sept. 11 at the City Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. This event is to pay solemn tribute to those who heroically sacrificed their own lives to save thousands of others, and to remember those who helped in the rescue-recovery efforts that followed [...]
The public is invited to attend the City's 9-11 Remembrance Ceremony
On September 11, at 8:30 a.m., the City of Asheville will commemorate the 16th anniversary of the attacks on the World Trade Center. The observance will take place in front of the Municipal Building, 100 Court Plaza. The ceremony will honor the memory of the firefighters, law enforcement officers, and other first responders and civilians who [...]
A new fire station is planned for City-owned property on Broadway in the Five Points neighborhood. The City of Asheville will host a community meeting at 6:30 p.m. March 11 at Greater Works Church, 25 Forsythe St. The community is invited to attend to learn more about the project and meet the architect as the project [...]
A new fire station is planned on City-owned property at 316 Broadway St. in the Five Points neighborhood. The City of Asheville will share results of a recently conducted visual preference survey and project updates during a community meeting at 6:30 p.m. June 26 at Greater Works Church, 25 Forsythe St. The community [...]
The City of Asheville is pleased to host a groundbreaking event for a new Public Safety Station at 316 Broadway Street in north Asheville at 10 a.m. October 18. This facility will be home to Fire Station 13, a Police Substation, the relocated Emergency Operations Center, and a small community conference room. Brief comments will be [...]
The City of Asheville and Buncombe County will host a Memorial Day Ceremony at 3:00 p.m. May 30, 2022 at the Roger McGuire Green in Pack Square Park. The ceremony will feature short readings by Brothers And Sisters Like These Veterans Writing Group who write to heal the wounds of war. Pastor Spencer [...]
Asheville City government offices will be closed April 15 for spring break.
ASHEVILLE – The Asheville Fire Department recently received delivery of a mass evacuation bus that will greatly increase public safety officials’ ability to handle larger emergencies and disasters in the region. It was purchased with a $357,000 grant from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security Grant Program, said Asheville Fire Department Division Chief Joe Meadows. The bus, [...]
Climate Justice tools and resources can help operationalize lessons and information gathered in “clear skies” times to react and respond with informed, data driven actions during times of stress and crisis. Reports and data sets from the multi-year process of analyzing Asheville’s climate threats and assets, interviewing community members and hosting community conversations culminated in [...]
The City of Asheville Fire Department gave serious messages a fun twist recently, bringing its Asheville PALS skits to City of Asheville elementary schools. Asheville PALS, which stands for Prevention and Life Safety, is a program developed by AFD that uses skits, clowns, puppets and kid-favorite Sparky the Fire Dog to convey fire and child [...]
A big thanks to all of the City of Asheville employees who came out and donated at the Asheville Fire Department and Asheville Police Department Blood Drive on October 24. The drive, held in the City of Asheville Municipal Building that houses both the APD and AFD, saw donors from multiple departments contributing where it [...]
An international organization of government IT workers recognized the City of Asheville June 15 for an innovative and cost effective point-to-point network connecting the city’s emergency response network. The system, implemented with the assistance of IT Services, the Asheville Fire Department, and Building Safety, and with a partnership with the locally-based Skyrunner, grew out of a [...]
ASHEVILLE – Members of the Asheville community, city leaders and staff on Sunday gathered to observe the 10th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001. The ceremony was led by the Asheville Fire Department and was held in the Ferguson Auditorium of Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College. Officials say the total number of people killed in [...]
The Nature Conservancy is planning a 9-acre controlled burn at the Oshun Mountain Sanctuary on March 5, 2018. The Asheville Fire Department and North Carolina Forest Service will assist with the burn, which will remove leaf litter and other debris that could fuel wildfires and endanger nearby homes. The fire will also improve [...]
ASHEVILLE – The Development Services Center is continuing its emphasis on providing excellent customer service by seeking regular feedback from the people it serves. Staff recently issued an online customer service survey to gauge their performance. The goal is to keep doing what customers say is working and to improve in areas that customers felt were [...]
The Asheville Fire Department urges City of Asheville residents to know how old their smoke alarms are, and to replace them every 10 years Does your home have a smoke alarm? According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), the answer is likely yes: NFPA research shows that most American homes have at least one. But do you know [...]
It may be bittersweet to say goodbye to summer. But fall brings its own charm with crisp autumn afternoons, colorful leaves and fall festivals. As the weather beings to change, here are some helpful fire safety reminders from the Asheville Fire Department. Home heating Soon you may need to fire up the furnace so it is important [...]
The mission of the City of Asheville Fire Department is to protect the lives, property and environment of all people within Asheville by preventing the occurrence and minimizing the adverse effects of fires, accidents, and all other emergencies. This mission will be accomplished with firefighter pride, preparedness and professionalism, with a focus on quality customer [...]
For 28 youths, this week was a chance to fill the boots of firefighters at the City of Asheville Fire Department’s Fire Escape camp. For the third year in a row, AFD hosted the three-day camp for boys and girls in grades six through eight. Attendance at the camp, held at the Asheville Firefighters Association Camp [...]
Asheville Fire Department Asheville Fire Department business hours are Monday -Thursday 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Main Office Line: 828-259-5636 Fire Marshal’s Division: 828-259-5640 Physical Address: 100 Court Plaza Asheville, NC 28801 Mailing Address: P.O. Box 7148 Asheville, NC 28802 Fire Chief (Vacant) Position Announcement Deputy Fire Chief (Interim Fire Chief ) Chris Budzinski 828-259-5636 cbudzinski@ashevillenc.gov Deputy Fire Chief Chris Budzinski joined the Asheville [...]
The Asheville Fire Department offers several different types of education and prevention programs that target children, adults and seniors. These programs are delivered to the public at no charge and are presented in the most professional manner. These programs allow us to achieve our mission, which is to protect the lives, property and environment of [...]
ASHEVILLE – In recognition of Fire Safety Month and fire dangers associated with the fall and winter seasons – wood burning stoves, Christmas trees, etc. – the City of Asheville’s Risk Management Division and the Asheville Fire Department this week hosted portable fire extinguisher training for staff. The training focused on the general principles of portable [...]
A person working within the Fire Marshal’s Office is no longer someone who just attempts to prevent fires. What was once made up of former firefighters who provided only fire prevention inspections in the city’s business areas has now become a complex division, which provides many aspects of emergency and non-emergency services. To meet today’s [...]
This facility will be home to Fire Station 13, a Police Substation, the relocated Emergency Operations Center, and a small community conference room.
Check out AFD History Get Map of AFD Stations City of Asheville hydrant information Asheville Fire Department Stations Fire Stations Station Name Location Station Image Fire Station 1 – Headquarters 100 Court Plaza Asheville, NC 28801 Apparatus: Engine 1, Ladder 1, Squad 1 Fire Station 2 415 South French Broad Avenue Asheville, NC 28801 Apparatus: [...]
It’s a patriotic holiday but the Fourth of July has a dark side. That’s because on a typical Fourth of July there are more fires nationally than on any other day of the year. And fireworks account for two out of five of those fires, more than any other cause of fires. More than 11,000 injuries [...]
Update, 8:45 a.m. Sept. 1 A Flash Flood Watch issued by the National Weather Service for the Asheville area has been cancelled. No additional widespread hazards are expected with the remnants of Ida, which will depart the area today. There is still s 60% chance of rain in today’s forecast. Update, 6:15 a.m. Sept. 1 All streets [...]
Latest Tropical Depression Florence storm track. Latest updates: The gates at the North Fork Dam were closed at 2:40 a.m. Sunday 703,184 without power statewide Sunday. Asheville remains under a wind advisory. The National Weather Service issued a flash flood watch for Asheville through Tuesday. Flooding impacts may not be apparent until Monday. The storm could bring the potential for landslides. A weakened [...]
The Asheville Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) — the official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week for more than 90 years — to promote this year’s Fire Prevention Week campaign, “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!™” The campaign, which runs [...]
Flameless candles are a fun and safe alternative to using real ones in a festive jack-o’-lantern or with other decorations. Children dressed in costumes excitedly running door to door to trick-or-treat, festive decorations like glowing jack-o-lanterns, paper ghosts and dried cornstalks adorning front porches – these are some of the classic hallmarks of Halloween that make [...]
Asheville Fire and Police Chaplain Wayne Roper passed away on April 1 at Mission Hospital. Chaplain Roper served several years for Asheville Fire and Police Departments assisting with ceremonies and providing emotional support. On Friday, April 7, there will be a procession from Groce Funeral Home, 1401 Patton Ave., which will commence at 1 p.m. [...]
How to submit a request for a smoke alarm.
The Asheville Citizens Fire Academy is designed to increase the community’s understanding and awareness of the Asheville Fire Department. This is an amazing opportunity for adults (18 years or older) who live and/or work in Asheville to learn about the philosophies, policies and guiding principles of the Asheville Fire Department and the services we provide [...]
A training exercise held on the campus of UNC Asheville May 24-26 reinforced the ability of the Asheville Fire Department and other agencies to cross-communicate with each other in the case of a regional emergency incident, as well as provided an opportunity to stage a large-scale drill. The exercise, funded by the Department of Homeland Security, [...]
Six city employees were recognized by Asheville City Council at its August 13 meeting. Council thanked for their hard work, drive for improvement, and, in one case, heroism. Darlene Barnwell, who works in the city’s Customer Service Division, received a standing ovation for her heroic rescue of an 8-year-old boy who was being attacked by dogs [...]
City of Asheville fosters development of an APP to help first responders and our community Identifying a need SAFE PLUS MORE is an APP to respond to the mental health needs of our first responders, men and women who face incredible odds, intense job pressure and psychological stressors on a daily basis as part of their career. Those [...]
July 28 marked the one year anniversary of the passing of Asheville Fire Department Captain Jeff Bowen, who lost his life in the line of duty while fighting a 2011 blaze at 445 Biltmore Avenue. To mark the occasion and honor Capt. Bowen’s life and service, a memorial service was held at Asheville-Buncombe Community College. The [...]
Want to get get the latest information on the City of Asheville Downtown Safety Initiative? You can do this through the City of Asheville website. What’s the Downtown Safety Initiative Due to a number of incidents impacting public safety, the City of Asheville is taking targeted steps to address the rise of crime especially in [...]
Asheville’s first responders are teaming up with the American Red Cross to save lives at the annual Battle of the Badges blood drive. The event takes place from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 22 at First Baptist Church, 5 Oak St., in Asheville. Battle of the Badges is a friendly competition between the Asheville Fire [...]
The holidays are filled with hustle and bustle and oftentimes people forget about the basics. The Asheville Fire Department is here to not only wish everyone a happy holiday season but a safe one as well. The following safety tips are helpful reminders to keep you, your family and your friends safe. Although AFD works 365 days [...]
Asheville residents can look upon the new year with optimism. Together, we’ve weathered a pandemic and a vaccine will be available this year. Even so, the City of Asheville’s response to COVID-19 will continue in the new year, in coordination with the state of North Carolina and Buncombe County. Residents can look forward to advances in [...]
Most people only give fire hydrants a passing glance, but to firefighters, each hydrant has color-coded info to give them quick and critical information, minimizing response time in emergencies. That’s why each hydrant gets a new paint job about every two years, and that’s where the great work of community volunteers comes in. Throughout the year, [...]
The Asheville Fire Department will hold its annual fire summer camp, Fire Escape, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. June 20-23. Designed for middle school-aged kids, this free summer series is a highly interactive camp filled with great hands on activities. It allows the kids to meet local firefighters and learn what it takes to be [...]
Forty Asheville Fire Department firefighters responded to the scene of a building collapse at 290 Haywood Road in West Asheville at 4:45 p.m. June 17, 2015. Asheville Police and City Development Services Department inspectors assisted with public safety following this incident. No one was in the building and no injuries were reported. The building was formerly occupied [...]
On April 3, 15 new Asheville Fire Department recruits stepped up a bit early to join forces with our firefighters already on the job. The recruits of the 90th academy started their training in November and were set to graduate in May, which has been postponed for a later date. All of them have completed [...]
The 9th annual Carolina Brotherhood ride picks back up after a year off due to COVID and is set to take off from Asheville on June 14 and finish on June 18 covering 650 miles. The six-day ride to include 8 riders from AFD and APD will cover 130 miles on the first day paying [...]
On the evening of Sunday, August 7, Asheville Fire Department’s Captain Anna Pigman came across a house fire on Fairfax Avenue as she happened to be driving by. Although off-duty, Captain Pigman took initiative to rush into action when she heard a call for help that someone was still inside the building. Knowing she was [...]
As anyone who works in the development industry, or for that matter, has tried to expand on an existing home can tell you, running the gauntlet of required permits in any city can be a long and complicated process. The City of Asheville’s Development Services Center at 161 South Charlotte represents an initiative across city [...]
Extremely cold temperatures are expected this weekend with wind chills below zero. While you’re celebrating the season and bringing 2022 to a close, the City of Asheville shares these tips to help protect your people, pets and pipes in the cold weather. People Avoiding frostbite and hypothermia In cold temperatures, your body begins to lose heat faster [...]
Thursday was graduation night for new firefighters with the Asheville Fire Department. In a series of staged simulations, graduates responded to a car fire, multi-story rope rescues, a vehicle embankment accident, a high-rise fire, and several other emergencies that continued throughout the night and into the morning. Congratulations to our new AFD firefighters! Here’s a photo [...]
The City of Asheville held a 911 remembrance ceremony downtown Friday. The event honored the 2,996 people who died during the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks on the World Trade Center, the Pentagon and on hijacked United Airlines Flight 93. The Asheville Fire Department Honor Guard placed a wreath in honor of those who died. Mayor Esther Manheimer [...]
The City of Asheville held its 9/11 Remembrance Ceremony outside of the Municipal Building this morning. Interim Fire Chief Chris Budzinski, Asheville Police Chief Tammy Hooper and Interim City Manager Cathy Ball made remarks honoring the first responders who lost their lives in the World Trade Center Twin Towers. All of the people who were killed [...]
Resources and information to help you prepare for an emergency.
In the world of communications, diversity means increased reliability. The city of Asheville uses a number of telecommunication tools to ensure public safety communications are in line with making Asheville the safest city in America when compared to cities of similar size. Information about the city’s public safety delivery systems is highly sensitive due to its [...]
Fire engines and police cruisers alike lit up on September 17 at the Murphy-Oakley Community Center and Fire Station Building, but they were not responding to an emergency. The blue and red lights were flashing in celebration of a high-speed communication connection that means better and faster service responses by Asheville’s emergency responders. The City of [...]
Register now for the 2019 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk Asheville, presented by the Asheville Fire Department. The event will take place on Sunday, Aug. 25, in downtown Asheville. Participating firefighters will run the event in full turnout gear. The 5K Run & Walk begins outside the Asheville Fire Depatment, 100 Court Plaza. To register, go to
Register now for the 2022 Tunnel to Towers 5K Run & Walk Asheville, presented by the Asheville Fire Department. The event will take place on Saturday, September 3, in downtown Asheville. Participating firefighters will run the event in full turnout gear. Registration will remain open until 11:00 a.m. on Sept. 3. The 5K Run & [...]
The Asheville Fire Department has a new high-tech guest: a newly-acquired robot designed to aid in the department in hazardous materials responses will allow firefighters to handle especially dangerous situations while maintaining a safe distance. The Talon robot, designed by QinetiQ North America, comes thanks to federal Department of Homeland Security funds allocated to supply the [...]
Come find out about the budget! The second in the City’s series of educational budget worksessions happens at 3 p.m. Sept. 25, prior to City Council’s 5 p.m. meeting. Come learn about the Asheville Fire Department, Parks & Recreation, Human Resources, Community & Public Engagement and the Department of Planning & Urban Design. The worksessions happen in [...]
The true first responders in any emergency are the everyday people living and working in their communities. Making an emergency plan together with your neighbors or neighborhood organization can have positive outcomes, including saving lives.
In the event of an emergency, you need to know where you can turn for information, advice, or even a helping hand. There are resources, both locally and nationally, to help you weather any storm.
Make a preparedness plan today. Your family may not be together if a disaster strikes. Know how you will contact each other and reconnect if separated. Take these steps found on the ready.gov website.
Asheville’s first responders are facing off for a lifesaving cause. Local heroes are rolling up their sleeves — and encouraging the community to do the same — as they vie for the most pints donated at the sixth annual Battle of the Badges blood drive. It happens 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Feb. 24 at First [...]
Keep updated through the City of Asheville on emergency and non-emergency subscriptions.
Sign up your household residence with Community Connect to aid first responders and emergency personnel.
Already this winter, multiple snowstorms have hit Asheville and Western North Carolina, and the City’s Public Works Department has been hard at work to keep roads passable and clear, while the Asheville Police and Fire Departments continue to keep people safe. The City of Asheville is urging the public to remain safe and cautious throughout inclement [...]
How much snow did we get? 2:20 p.m. Sunday, Dec. 9 Here are unofficial snowfall totals released by the National Weather Service: Asheville, 5 ½” Arden, 10” Biltmore Forest, 6 ½” Leicester, 8” Skyland, 9” More locations are listed at this link. Snow removal crews making progress, people still urged to refrain from driving Noon Sunday, Dec. 9 Public Works snow removal equipment by the [...]
On May 15, the Asheville Fire and Police Departments, in partnership with Buncombe County EMS, the Buncombe County Sheriff’s Department and the North Carolina Highway Patrol staged a mock motor vehicle fatality on the campus of Asheville High School to encourage teens to drive safely. Several hundred Asheville teens attended the demonstration, which was preceded by [...]
At its first meeting of the year, City Council received a report and viewed a video highlighting initiatives accomplished during 2015. Items ranged from the swearing in of Asheville Police Chief Tammy Hooper to the City earning a national award for its SimpliCity search engine. You can view that video at the bottom of this [...]
Eat, drink, be merry — and safe this Thanksgiving. It’s a top day for family gatherings and home fires. Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade runs from 9 a.m. to noon. Available on NBC, on NBC’s website or on the NBC app. Last year NBC partnered with Verizon to stream the parade for free on [...]
Utilizing prop obstacles and cutting equipment, the Asheville Fire Department trained at a warehouse in Swannanoa June 20-22 on techniques to enter structures that are locked or guarded by bars or garage doors. AFD Division Chief of Safety & Training Barry Hendren says: “One of a Ladder Company’s primary functions when they respond to a fire is [...]
As our thoughts are with the residents and communities of Florida dealing with the brunt of Hurricane Ian, the City of Asheville turns its attention to preparing our community for potential local weather impacts here. The main threat from Hurricane Ian will be heavy rainfall and gusty winds Friday through Saturday. Two-to-three inches are expected to [...]
So far this summer, temperatures in Asheville have been flirting with record highs. And with plenty of upcoming outdoor events like Bele Chere to choose from, the City of Asheville is asking people to be aware of the ways to prevent heat related illnesses as well as recognize their symptoms. Whether working or playing, overexposure to [...]
Mountain families have a chance to get an up-close look at big trucks, small trucks, transit buses, construction vehicles, and more when Asheville Parks & Recreation’s Truck City AVL returns to Asheville Outlets on April 9 from 1-4 p.m. Kids and adults can explore, touch, and ask questions about [...]
From an Asheville Fire Department press release: Units of the Asheville Fire Department responded to a reported residential structure fire at 23 Foxfire Drive, Turtle Creek Apartments on December 7, 2010 at approximately 2:00 am. The first arriving unit reported heavy smoke and soon after reported heavy fire conditions as well. AFD firefighters rescued 3 victims [...]
From the U.S. Census: The U.S. Census Bureau continues to recruit thousands of workers for temporary jobs available nationwide in advance of the 2020 Census. The 2020 Census Jobs website allows applicants to apply for a range of positions, including recruiting assistants, office operations supervisors, clerks, census field supervisors, and census takers by completing a single application online. Opportunities [...]
Asheville Police and Fire Departments joined neighbors from 11 communities for National Night Out on Aug. 7. Considered America’s Night Out Against Crime, NNO provides an opportunity for neighbors to get to know each other and form connections with local emergency responders and law enforcement to help deter crime in their community. Here’s a video compilation. Enjoy!
Here is a look at the seven tasks required for the Asheville Fire Department Physical Agility Test. For information on employment opportunities with the Asheville Fire Department, visit ashevillenc.gov/fire.
This edition of City Scoop features Kelley Klope, Public Information Officer for the Asheville Fire Department, discussing why fire trucks are dispatched on emergency medical calls.
There are nearly 4,000 fire hydrants in the City of Asheville and every couple of years they need a new coat of paint. Each year, the Asheville Fire Department repaints one half of Asheville’s fire hydrants in order to extend their life spans and to be more visible to firefighters. Covering that kind of ground [...]
The City of Asheville, NC is excited to share content though this new blog. We hope that you find the content useful and informative. Thanks for reading.
Here is the latest storm track for what has now become Tropical Storm Irma. The City of Asheville continues to closely monitor the storm for any local impacts. The path of Tropical Storm Irma now appears to be tracking somewhat west of Asheville. It is expected to come through through North Georgia/Tennessee/Western North Carolina on Monday/Tuesday. The [...]
What’s Up AVL! The City of Asheville’s bi-monthly radio show gives the community the chance to take a deep dive with the City of Asheville staff and departments. Learn about different departments and what projects are taking place in your community. This week, the City of Asheville host Sam Parada will sit down with City of Asheville staff [...]
What’s Up AVL! The City of Asheville’s bi-monthly radio show gives the community the chance to take a deep dive with City of Asheville staff and departments. Learn about different departments and what projects are taking place in your community. This week, the City of Asheville host Sam Parada will sit down with City of Asheville firefighter Anna [...]
On December 15, the Asheville Civic Center became a high-elevation training ground, as the Asheville Fire Department practiced rope maneuvers and evacuation techniques from the cat walk of the Civic Center arena. The next day found the department’s newest hires in Swannanoa at an arranged burn, part of the certification process for becoming a firefighter. From [...]
Each year the WNC Association of Firefighters gives an award to an outstanding individual who has distinguished himself or herself in the fire service. The association accepts nominations from across the western part of state from 395 departments and over 13,000 firefighters in search of just such an individual. This year, Asheville firefighter Jay Bettencourt [...]
