City of New Bern Fire-Rescue

06/03/2026

On June 2nd, at approximately 3:15 am, New Bern Fire Rescue units were dispatched to a reported structure fire. While patrolling, New Bern Police Department officers noticed smoke coming from the eaves of a Five Star convenience store, and notified dispatch.

Upon arrival, heavy smoke was visible from the structure and a working fire was declared by Battalion 1. Engine 4 and Engine 1 made a coordinated fire attack and searched the structure. The bulk of the fire was located in the attic space, and heavy smoke created zero visibility inside. Tower 1 vertically ventilated the roof to provide relief and improve conditions for interior crews. Engine 2 and Ladder 1 established RIT and joined overhaul efforts.

Investigation from our prevention division ruled the cause of ignition to be accidental. We are grateful to report no injuries.

Thank you to City of New Bern, NC Police Department for calling this incident in so quickly. Early notification ensured our crews an aggressive and quick knockdown. Support services were provided by West of New Bern Fire Department , and CarolinaEast EMS joined us on scene to closely monitor our firefighters as they worked. Managing large scenes like this requires a collective effort, and we are always thankful for our fellow first responders.

06/01/2026

This week, New Bern Fire-Rescue welcomes the peer assessment team from the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI) as part of our reaccreditation process. We achieved our first national accreditation in July 2021, marking a significant milestone. Roughly 22 departments in North Carolina hold this title, and each must be re-evaluated every 5 years.

Over the next few days, assessors will conduct a comprehensive review of our department, examining everything from operations and training to planning, resource management, and delivery of service to the community.

This process helps ensure we continue to meet the nationally recognized standards and remain committed to continuous improvement.

We are proud of the work our members do every day, and look forward to showcasing the dedication, professionalism, and commitment that define New Bern Fire-Rescue! 🚒

05/29/2026

We’re a brotherhood. We’re a family. And like most families, a lot of life happens around the table.

Staff meetings. Shift briefings. Pep talks. Training plans. Shared meals. Big conversations and everyday moments. Our table is more than furniture, it’s where we come together.

So, when one of our tables needed replacing, we set out to build something sturdy. Something built to last. A strong foundation for the family that gathers around it every day.

But when The Wood Shop and Mr. Slate heard about the project, they knew it could be even more meaningful. They helped transform it into something special giving us a daily reminder of why we gather: to protect, serve, and support our community and each other.

Thank you to The Wood Shop and Mr Slate Laser Works LLC for this incredible partnership. You didn’t just help build a table — you helped create a place where memories will be made, traditions will continue, and our fire family will come together for years to come.

05/26/2026

The fire ground doesn’t care about excuses, comfort, or complacency. 🚒

That’s why our firefighters continue attending outside classes focused on engine operations, truck work, and fire ground tactics. From Greensboro, to Carolina Beach, to Atlanta, they've been seeking knowledge from experienced instructors to sharpen their craft and bring that passion back home.

We are proud of the work these firefighters are putting in behind the scenes to become more aggressive, more disciplined, and more capable on the fire ground. 🔥

05/25/2026

On this Memorial Day, New Bern Fire-Rescue honors the courageous men and women who gave their lives in service to our country. We remember their sacrifice and extend our gratitude to the families who carry their legacy forward. 🇺🇸

05/19/2026

Every day, we’re honored to answer the call…but this one caught us by surprise.

Earlier this year, PBS' Best of Our State reached out about producing a mini-documentary on New Bern’s history as North Carolina’s first chartered fire department. We gathered our team & turned to our community to help tell the story.

That story isn’t just about firetrucks and sirens. It’s about triumph & hardship, department rivalries, the evolution of firefighting, segregation in the South & the lasting impact of the Great Fire of 1922. It’s the story of how we’ve grown—from separate departments into one united team proudly serving & protecting New Bern.

Thank you PBS North Carolina for the opportunity to share our journey. We’re honored to carry on a tradition generations in the making… & continue answering the call. 🚒

Go behind the scenes of New Bern Fire-Rescue to witness the legacy of NC’s oldest fire department.

05/16/2026

🎉Another year in the books!🎉
Thank you, Oaks Road Academy for inviting us this morning to greet the kids on their way to school. It’s always a pleasure to see the smiling faces just before summer break.

05/12/2026

Meet Alex the Inventor!

We surprised 10-year-old Alex at school today after hearing about his incredible invention for the “Invention Convention.”

Alex created a Fire Saver Ring — a wearable device with a heat sensor & alarm that alerts families when smoke or fire is detected in the home. When the alarm sounds, it’s your signal to get out safely & call 9-1-1.

🥇His life-saving idea earned him FIRST PLACE across the entire fifth grade!

To celebrate, our firefighters stopped by with cupcakes, congratulations, and of course… a special ride on the big red truck. 🚒

We are so proud of this bright young inventor for using creativity to help keep people safe. We can't wait to see what he comes up with next.

05/12/2026

💡Meet Alex the Inventor!

We surprised 10-year-old Alex at school today after hearing about his incredible invention for the “Invention Convention.”

Alex created a Fire Saver Ring — a wearable device with a heat sensor & alarm that alerts families when smoke or fire is detected in the home. When the alarm sounds, it’s your signal to get out safely & call 9-1-1.

🥇His life-saving idea earned him FIRST PLACE across the entire fifth grade!

To celebrate, our firefighters stopped by with cupcakes, congratulations, and of course… a special ride on the big red truck. 🚒

We are so proud of this bright young inventor for using creativity to help keep people safe. We can't wait to see what he comes up with next. Craven County Schools

05/12/2026

Technical Rescue - Extrication, "Operations Level".

This class's focus was vehicle stabilization and accessing victims in non-traditional positions. These unique situations create complex problems, and uncontrolled or rushed movements can turn a bad situation worse in seconds.

This is why we train. Precision matters, communication matters, and every movement around a trapped patient has a purpose. We welcomed students with City of Havelock Fire - Rescue Department and West of New Bern Fire Department, which only strengthens the relationships we rely on when the call comes in.