Fire Department

Our Mission

The mission of the Bessemer City Fire Department is to protect life, property, and the environment through professional fire suppression, emergency medical response, fire prevention, and public education.
We serve with integrity, dedication, and compassion, ensuring the safety and well-being of all who live, work, and visit Bessemer City.

Our Core Values

• Service: Putting the needs of our community first
• Integrity: Acting honestly, ethically, and responsibly
• Excellence: Committed to continuous improvement and professional growth
• Respect: Treating everyone with fairness and dignity
• Safety: Protecting both our personnel and the public

Focus Areas

1. Emergency Response

• Fire suppression and rescue operations
• Response to structural, vehicle, and wildland fires
• Hazardous materials and vehicle accident response

2. Fire Prevention & Inspection

• Fire code enforcement and property inspections
• Plan review for new construction and renovations
• Fire investigations to determine cause and origin

3. Public Education & Outreach

• School programs and fire safety presentations
• Community events and station tours
• Smoke detector installations and safety checks

4. Life Safety & Risk Reduction

• Free smoke detectors available for senior citizens and low-income families
• Promotion of fire-safe behaviors such as safe cooking, heating, and home escape planning
• Public awareness campaigns including “Close Before You Doze”

5. Training & Readiness

• Ongoing firefighter and EMS training
• Hazardous materials, vehicle extrication, and rescue certification
• Mutual aid coordination with surrounding departments

Apparatus Fleet

The Bessemer City Fire Department maintains a fleet of apparatus designed to meet the needs of our growing community:

• 2020 Ferrara Pumper
• 2001 American LaFrance Pumper
• 1995 Quality Pumper
• 1986 FMC Pumper
• 1987 Ford Brush Truck

Regular maintenance, upgrades, and technology enhancements ensure our team remains ready for every emergency.

Smoke Detectors & Fire Safety

Bessemer City residents may request free smoke detectors if they meet certain eligibility requirements:

• Available to: Senior citizens and low-income families
• Request line: (704) 629-5396
• Reminder: Test detectors monthly and replace batteries twice a year.
• Note: Open burning is prohibited within Bessemer City limits.

Department Overview

• ISO Rating: Class 3 (reflecting strong fire protection capability)
• Address: 119 W. Washington Avenue, Bessemer City, NC 2801
• Non-Emergency Line: (704) 629-5396
• Emergency: Dial 911

Community Engagement

The Fire Department encourages residents to:

• Attend community safety events and open houses
• Schedule school visits and educational programs
• Follow city communication channels for updates and safety tips

Together, we can make Bessemer City a safer, more resilient place to live.

Looking Ahead

The department continues to plan for the future through:

• Equipment modernization and apparatus replacement
• Enhanced firefighter wellness and training programs
• Community risk reduction initiatives and expanded outreach