Durham County Fire Marshal

10/03/2026

10/02/2026

Are you interested in a career with the Durham County Fire Marshal's Office? We are now hiring Assistant Fire Marshals! If you're looking for a fast-growing and vibrant county with competitive pay and excellent benefits, Durham County is the place you want to be!

https://careers.dconc.gov/job/Durham-ASSISTANT-FIRE-MARSHAL-40000678-and-40000681-NC-27701/1424669800/

10/02/2026

Thanks for the recognition! You'll be hearing more from us about Fire Prevention Week starting next Monday.

07/05/2026

As many in our community prepare for a celebratory Fourth of July evening, Durham County Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts shares this important safety message focused on fireworks safety and laws:

Hello Durham County,

As Independence Day approaches, I want to take a moment to highlight the importance of fireworks safety and understanding North Carolina’s firework laws. This season consistently brings an increased risk of fires and injuries, which can be prevented through awareness and responsible choices.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, North Carolina sees an average of 192 emergency department visits each year due to fireworks-related injuries. Nearly 72% of those injuries happen in July, right in line with holiday celebrations. The most common injuries are burns to the hands, face, eyes, and other extremities, and these account for almost half of all emergency room cases. Nationwide, fireworks have led to 14,700 emergency room visits and 11 deaths in recent years, underscoring the dangers that come with improper use.

In North Carolina, as a general rule: any fireworks that leave the ground or explode are illegal for personal use. Safer, legal alternatives include sparklers, smoke devices, snakes, and other ground based items that do not launch or detonate.

Hot and dry weather—like what we are currently experiencing—further increases fire danger. Under these conditions, even a small spark can ignite grass, brush, or nearby structures.

To help keep our community safe, consider low risk ways to celebrate, such as crafting holiday-themed projects with children, using glow sticks, or attending professional fireworks displays. If you do choose to use fireworks, ensure that only adults handle them, and always keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.

By staying informed and taking simple precautions, we can work together to prevent avoidable injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone in Durham County. For questions or more information our team can be contacted at 919-560-0660 or [email protected]

Best Regards,

Tyler Fitts
Chief Fire Marshal







Durham County Fire Marshal
Durham City/County Emergency Management

This message was originally shared in the July 2nd Durham This Week Online found here: https://mailchi.mp/dconc/here-is-durham-this-week-online-for-july-2-2026

07/03/2026

Did you know that sparklers can reach almost 1200 degrees Fahrenheit?

As you continue to plan your weekend celebration, remember, the safest way to enjoy fireworks is by leaving it to the professionals!

06/16/2026

As we approach a time of celebration for many, remember, as a general rule in the State of North Carolina fireworks that go into the air or explode are prohibited. Please keep the following in mind when celebrating this year.

- Only adults should handle fireworks
- Fireworks should be enjoyed from a safe distance
- Sparklers can cause serious burns as they reach temperatures of over 1200 degrees
- Dry conditions can lead to unforeseen fires occurring, be sure to have water or a fire extinguisher nearby.

06/12/2026

As dry conditions continue across our area, outdoor fires require extra caution. Outdoor burning should only take place when conditions are safe, and residents should avoid burning during windy conditions or when surrounding vegetation is dry.

Always keep a water source and shovel nearby, maintain a safe clearance around your fire, and never leave it unattended. A few simple precautions can help prevent a campfire from becoming a wildfire.

06/09/2026

Tonight the Durham County Board of County Commissioner’s honored the life, service, and sacrifice of Bahama Firefighter Richard “Ricky” Dorsey, who lost his life in the line of duty in 1996 during the peak of Hurricane Fran. This year marks 30 years since his untimely passing at just 19 years old. Firefighter Dorsey is fondly remembered for his passion, dedication, and selfless commitment to protecting others.

The Durham Legislative Delegation is working with the North Carolina Department of Transportation to have the bridge over Little River Reservoir on Highway 501 named in his honor.