Hemby Bridge Fire Department

Congratulations Hemby Bridge Fire Department members Jessie Watts and Ethan Clifford on their graduation from the Charlotte Fire Department Recruit Class. We are proud of their accomplishment.

Congratulations, CFD Recruit Class 137!

Congratulations, Recruit Class 137! Welcome to the Charlotte Fire family!

This morning, 27 members of Recruit Class 137 proudly received their badges and took the oath to serve, marking the culmination of months of demanding training, determination and hard work.

What began as a group of individuals with a shared goal has become a new generation of Charlotte firefighters, ready to carry forward the commitment to service that defines Charlotte Fire. For many, that commitment becomes a reality tomorrow as they report to their firehouses for their very first shift protecting and serving the Queen City.

Please join us in congratulating the newest members of Charlotte Fire!

Recruit Class 137 Graduates
Maos Baldwin, Jr., Zachary Bauer, Ethan Clifford, Jesse Dittrich, Anthony Dressler, Dennis Duymaz, Hunter Goss, Bailey Gunter, Joshua Haston, Patrick Hogan, Denton Holt, Kyle Kovach, Carter Kovarik, Javier Marquez-Chavez, Jason Maschi, Austin Mitchell, Michael Newbery, Sammy Ostarello, Adam Phillips, Isaac Rieken, Matthew Rose, Brendan Ryan, Jr., Jayden Scott, Caroline Stowe, Dalton Sweat, Alexander Vander Kolk and Jesse Watts.

Your journey through recruit school may be complete, but your career of serving others is just beginning. Congratulations, Class 137! The Queen City is counting on you, and we're proud to welcome you to the Charlotte Fire family.

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month, and our firefighters are proud to wear pink in support of those fighting breast cancer, those who have survived, and those we have lost.

In the fire service, we talk every day about the importance of prevention and early detection, and that message goes far beyond fire safety. Early detection can make a difference. Use this month as a reminder to talk with your healthcare provider and stay up to date with recommended mammograms and screenings.

The Hemby Bridge Fire Department extends our deepest condolences to the City of Durham Fire Department as they mourn the tragic line-of-duty death of one of their own. During this difficult time, we ask our community to join us in lifting up the fallen firefighter’s family, friends, fellow firefighters, the City of Durham, and the entire fire service in prayer.

It is with deep sadness and a heavy heart that we announce the passing of Vice President of the Board of Directors and Firefighter Ralph Rowell.
Ralph was the longest-serving member of the Hemby Bridge Fire Department. He dedicated 57 years of faithful, unselfish protection, and leadership to our community. His foresight, decades of experience, and guidance shaped our department. His absence leaves a large void across our entire department.
Please keep the Rowell family, his close friends, and our fellow personnel in your thoughts and prayers during this difficult time.

- Chief Blythe

Obituary information for Ralph Alonzo Rowell View Ralph Alonzo Rowell's obituary, contribute to their memorial, see their funeral service details, and more.

Hemby Bridge Fire Department is teaming up with the National Fire Protection Association® (NFPA®) to support Fire Prevention Week. This year’s FPW theme, “Charge into Fire Safety: Safe Charging Is a Superpower,” focuses on the simple steps people can take to recharge safely. Safe charging means making smart choices every time you plug in.

🌧 RAIN DATE: SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7TH, 2026 11:00 AM - 3:00PM
In partnership with the Humane Society of Union County (North Carolina) we are celebrating the community at Hillcrest Pharmacy with a fun event for the whole family, featuring food, dessert 🍧, fire truck 🚒, home safety training 🚑, local craft vendors 🎁, superhero appearance, and of course dogs in need of a loving home! We look forward to seeing you all there!

Blocked vents can cause overheating and spark a fire. Learn more tips to prevent this type of fire in your home: https://ucgov.info/4yEZ5tb

Did you know dryers are one of the leading causes of house fires? Our Fire Marshal's Office reminds you to always clean out the lint filter after every load and check behind the dryer for lint buildup. Blocked vents can cause overheating and spark a fire. A few extra seconds of cleaning can prevent a dangerous situation. Learn more tips to prevent this type of fire in your home: https://ucgov.info/4yEZ5tb

Registration is required for this event. Please call 980-214-5238 or email [email protected]
Thank you Firefighters For The Cure for sponsoring this event!

May we never forget those who were lost, those who ran toward danger, and the families who carry their memory forward.

We remember. We honor. We will never forget.