Hillcrest Fire Department

06/06/2026

This past Wednesday, our firefighters participated in a countywide live fire training exercise at the Hoke County Burn Building.

Thanks to our strong partnership with Sandhills Community College, firefighters had the opportunity to train in realistic fireground conditions involving live fire, smoke, and heat. Crews focused on fire suppression operations and search and rescue tactics, allowing them to sharpen critical skills in a controlled environment.

Training under realistic conditions helps ensure our firefighters are prepared to respond safely and effectively when real emergencies occur.

06/05/2026

This morning, our firefighters were invited to Rio Jiu Jitsu’s Fun Day, and it was a great time for everyone involved. The kids absolutely loved cooling off and playing in the water, and we were happy to provide some “big sprinklers” to help make the day even more enjoyable.

Seeing the smiles and excitement on the kids’ faces made it a memorable morning for our firefighters as well.

Thank you to riojiujitsuacademy for including us—we look forward to doing it again!

06/02/2026

Tonight our firefighters trained on a skill we hope we never have to use: managing a firefighter emergency involving a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA).

When firefighters operate in hazardous environments, their SCBA is critical life-saving equipment. Training on emergency procedures ensures that if a firefighter experiences an equipment failure, becomes entangled, or encounters another emergency while wearing their SCBA, they can react quickly and effectively.

Regular practice of these skills builds confidence, reinforces muscle memory, and helps ensure every firefighter goes home safely. We train for the worst so we’re prepared when it matters most.

05/25/2026

05/21/2026

Tonight we celebrated two of our firefighters who successfully completed the Sandhills Community College High School Fire Academy.

FF Lunn and Junior FF Carlin completed all but one class required to obtain their firefighter certification — a tremendous accomplishment that reflects their dedication, hard work, and commitment to the fire service.

Please join us in congratulating these two on this major milestone. We are proud of their achievements and look forward to watching them continue to grow in the fire service.

05/17/2026

**For Immediate Release**

The Hillcrest Fire Department responded to a reported electrical fire on May 14 at approximately 5:59 a.m.

Upon arrival, firefighters found a light haze of smoke inside the residence. Crews investigated and determined the source to be a 10,000mAh portable cell phone battery charger (power bank) that had caught fire. The lithium battery fire had been extinguished by the occupants prior to fire department arrival. Damage was limited to a bed, carpet, and pillow inside the room.

The battery pack reportedly showed no visible signs of damage or malfunction prior to the incident. At the time of the fire, the power bank was plugged into a multi-port charging block. Two civilians sustained minor injuries.

Multiple agencies were automatically assigned to assist, including Rockfish, Puppy Creek, North Raeford, Stonewall, Tylertown, City of Raeford, and Stoney Point Fire Departments, along with Hoke County Emergency Services, Hoke EMS, and the Hoke County Sheriff’s Office.

We would like to thank our mutual aid partners for their support and assistance during the incident.

This incident serves as an important reminder to regularly inspect lithium battery-powered devices for damage, follow manufacturer charging guidelines, and use only approved charging cords and accessories. Even small lithium batteries can generate significant heat capable of causing a rapidly growing fire.

Media Contact:
Mike Carlin, Captain
Hillcrest Fire Department
[email protected]

05/16/2026

This morning our firefighters spent some time helping a young man celebrate his birthday. We had a great time showing the kids the fire truck and talking with families about the importance of fire prevention and safety.

Opportunities like these allow us to connect with our community. Happy Birthday, and thank you for letting us be part of the celebration!

05/12/2026

Tonight our firefighters trained on search and rescue operations. Focusing on these critical skills helps ensure we’re prepared to quickly and effectively search a structure and safely remove victims when seconds matter most.

Thanks to the strong partnership with Sandhills Community College sandhillscc, our members had the opportunity to train under the guidance of two experienced instructors

05/05/2026

Our firefighters hard at work during our monthly volunteer apparatus and equipment checks. These routine inspections help ensure every tool is in its proper place, fully functional, and ready for service. They also give our firefighters valuable hands-on time to stay familiar and proficient with the equipment they rely on when it matters most.