South Side Volunteer Fire Department and Rescue Squad

05/29/2026

Although the rainfall has alleviated some drought conditions, we remain in a state of severe drought. Residents in county areas are advised to exercise caution when burning, while those within city limits must obtain a burn permit by contacting the Town of Erwin Fire Department. It's worth noting that burn permits are mandatory year-round within the Erwin city limits, whereas in county areas, they become required starting October 15th.

05/23/2026

Everyone please come out and support us at our annual bbq fundraiser!

05/15/2026

Be sure to support Unicoi Volunteer Fire & Rescue tomorrow!

05/10/2026

Happy Mother's Day to all of our amazing moms and all of the other amazing moms out there! Thank you for all you do!! We hope you enjoy your day!

"Her children arise up, and call her blessed; Her husband also, and he praiseth her." Proverbs 31:28

Send a message to learn more

04/23/2026

Working together to serve this community that we all love!

04/22/2026

Did it rain near you recently? If so, you may be wondering why fire risk may still be a concern.

While recent rainfall has provided some short-term relief, most areas received less than half an inch over the past 48 hours. That is enough to temporarily reduce the risk of ignition in surface grasses and light debris, but it is not enough to recharge the deeper layers of the forest floor. Those deeper fuels, which have been drying out for weeks, have seen little to no recovery from this rain event.

Surface fuels may feel temporarily safer, but the heavy, deep fuels underneath remain critically dry and capable of sustaining intense fire behavior. With no significant rainfall forecast in the near term, humidity levels across Tennessee are expected to drop back into the low 20s this week, quickly erasing any gains made by recent rain.

Until a more substantial and widespread rainfall event occurs, elevated fire risk remains. Caution is advised any time ignition is considered. Stay informed and follow all local burn regulations before burning.

Visit our website for the latest fire conditions across Tennessee!

www.tn.gov/tnwildlandfire/resources/predictive-services/outlooks.html

NOTE: This photo is from a fire this spring that is now out.

04/10/2026

🔥 FIRE WEATHER ALERT THIS WEEKEND 🔥

Elevated fire danger conditions are expected this weekend due to drought, dry fuels, and wind. A small spark can lead to a rapidly spreading wildfire.

Here's how you can help keep our community safe:
✅ Do not burn without a burn permit; we will not issue permits where conditions are unsafe
✅ Avoid outdoor burning
✅ Don't park vehicles on dry grass
✅ Keep grills and fire pits away from structures
✅ Make sure ci******es are fully extinguished

If you see smoke or flames, call 911 immediately. Do not assume someone else has already reported it.

Stay safe out there. 🙏

NOTE: This photo is from a fire earlier this year that is now out.

04/10/2026

11/26/2025

Prevent Vehicle Fires Before They Start! 🔥

Simple steps like maintaining your vehicle, avoiding dragging chains, and staying on paved roads can make a big difference in preventing wildland fires. Let's keep Tennessee safe and fire-free!

10/15/2025

Please get a burn permit if you are planning on burning! Burn permits are required from October 15-May 15. It is also recommended you contact your local fire department and let them know you are planning to burn! Please help us keep the community safe by respecting the law and burning responsibly.

🔥🌳 It is wildfire season in Tennessee, which means burn permits are required whenever you burn leaves or natural debris, including hurricane debris.

A few things to note:

🔥 Permits are FREE

🔥 Permits can be obtained online at burnsafetn.org

🔥 If you don't have internet access, you can get a permit Monday thru Friday, 8 am to 4:30 pm local time, by calling 877-350-2876

🔥 Some local municipalities have additional burning restrictions and / or alternative burn permit programs, so always check local requirements before burning

🔥 Links to information about burning hurricane debris can be found at burnsafetn.org

We're happy to answer any questions you have!