South Fork Fire Department

08/25/2026

The Board of Directors, Fire Chief Derek Parks, and the members of the South Fork Volunteer Fire Department are proud to announce that our department has officially improved its insurance rating to a Class 3, effective December 1, 2026.

This milestone is a direct result of the dedication of our members, the ongoing support of our community, and strong working relationships with our neighboring fire departments.

This upgraded rating reflects enhanced fire protection capabilities and may help homeowners and business owners within our district qualify for reduced fire insurance premiums. Additional details regarding how property owners can take advantage of these savings will be shared soon. Furthermore, Fire Chief Derek Parks and department staff will host a community meeting in the near future to discuss the full benefits of this new rating. Please stay tuned for date(s) and time(s) of these informational sessions.

Our department thanks the Long Shoals, Laboratory and Salem Church communities for the continued support.

08/22/2026

⚠️ Traffic advisory: Gastonia Hwy is reportedly shut down between Long Shoals Road and Brady Hoffman Road

Update South fork has cleared use caution workers are still in the area 

08/18/2026

The South Fork VFD held its annual community meeting last night, featuring department and operational updates from Board President David Mays and Fire Chief Parks.

Community members re-elected 3 board members.

08/12/2026

08/11/2026

SFVFD provided mutual aid to the Lincolnton Fire Department during a residential structure fire, with South Fork units handling water supply operations and secondary interior assignments.

Additional SFVFD members staffed the station.

08/11/2026

SFVFD would like to congratulate Chris Grice on becoming a certified firefighter. We recognize the time commitment and effort that went into this process. Tonight Asst Chief Phillips issued FF Grice his black shield. The black shield represents a certified firefighter status.

08/02/2026

Traffic Advisory

US 321 North at mile marker 22 is reported shut down. Motorists should expect significant delays and seek an alternate route if possible.

Update 321 north is open to one lane.

07/22/2026

Public Safety Advisory: The National Weather Service has issued a Flood Watch for Lincoln and surrounding counties, effective from Wednesday at 8 PM until THURSDAY AT 8 Pm

Based on historical trends, conditions during similar rain events often cause localized flooding along South Fork Road. Additionally, the South Fork Volunteer Fire Department anticipates a higher risk of traffic incidents and routinely responds to multiple collisions on US-321 during heavy rainfall.

Motorists are strongly advised to allow extra travel time, reduce speeds, and exercise increased caution, particularly on US-321.

Inspect your tires before driving. Bald tires and wet roads are a dangerous combination.