At Tri-Beach Volunteer Fire Department, our primary mission is protecting the lives, homes, and businesses of Holden Beach, Varnamtown, and coastal Brunswick County. While our crews stand ready to respond 24/7/365, the most effective fire suppression starts with prevention in your own home.

Most residential fires are preventable. By taking a few simple, proactive steps today, you can dramatically reduce the risk of fire and protect the people you love most.

4 Essential Home Fire Safety Steps

1.Test & Maintain Smoke Alarms: Your first line of defense.

Ensure smoke detectors are installed inside every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of your home. Test them monthly by pressing the test button, and replace batteries at least once a year (or when you change your clocks). Replace entire smoke alarm units every 10 years.

2.Create and Practice an Emergency Escape Plan: Practice makes perfect.

Draw a floor plan of your home showing two ways out of every room. Designate a safe, clear meeting place outside (such as a specific tree, mailbox, or neighbor's driveway). Practice your escape plan with everyone in your household at least twice a year.

3.Practice Kitchen & Heating Safety: Target top risk areas.

Cooking remains the leading cause of home fires. Never leave cooking food unattended, keep flammable items away from stovetops, and keep a multipurpose (ABC) fire extinguisher nearby. If using space heaters during cooler months, keep them at least 3 feet away from curtains, bedding, or furniture.

4.Follow Burning Regulations: Prevent outdoor spread.

Before burning yard debris or lighting outdoor fire pits, check local Brunswick County burning advisories and wind conditions. Never leave outdoor fires unattended, keep a water source nearby, and fully extinguish all coals or embers before leaving the area.

What to Do If a Fire Occurs

1. GET OUT, STAY OUT: Never go back inside a burning building for pets, belongings, or property.

2. CALL 911 IMMEDIATELY: Report the fire from a safe location outside or from a neighbor's phone.

3. STAY LOW: If you encounter smoke while escaping, crawl low under the smoke where the air is cleaner and cooler.

We Are Here to Serve You

The Tri-Beach Volunteer Fire Department is proud to serve our vibrant coastal community. If you need assistance checking smoke detectors, have questions about outdoor burn permits, or want to learn how to join our team as a volunteer firefighter, please reach out to us today.

In an Emergency, Always Dial 911