Author: Hank Stern
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Remembering 9/11
Tomorrow marks the 25th anniversary of the September 11th 2001 attacks on our nation, where 2,753 people lost their lives in New York City. Of those were 411 emergency workers. The sacrifices of first responders did not end that day. Since then, the total number of first responders’ deaths due to 9/11-related illness and tower… Read moreā¦
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The Next Engine for the Next Emergency
Dear Kings Mountain Resident, I am writing to ask for your support in replacing one of our most critical pieces of firefighting equipment: Engine 356 (E356). E356 is a four-wheel-drive, short-wheelbase fire engine built for all-terrain responses and difficult to reach locations. Its size and maneuverability allow it to access wildfires in remote open space… Read moreā¦
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New California Defensible Space Proposed Regulations (Part 2)
This is part two of a two-part series on the new CA defensible space proposed regulations (Part 1). Implementation Plan PHASE 1 (Implemented within the first 3 years): Includes removing combustible items such as firewood, dead leaves and branches, mulch and wood chips within 5 feet of the structure. Cleaning gutters, removing dead and dying… Read moreā¦
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New California Defensible Space Proposed Regulations (Part 1)
In recent years, California state leaders have launched a series of actions and investments to confront the increased wildfire risk experienced in the state. Through emergency action to fast-track nearly 400 wildfire resilience projects, investments for wildfire prevention/protection and giving communities the tools to be ready for when the next catastrophic wildfire starts, California is… Read moreā¦
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Earthquake Safety
The small earthquake last month is a good reminder on how we can prepare and react to earthquakes in our rural Kings Mountain community. Limited access to immediate emergency services, longer response times, and infrastructure challenges mean itās especially important that every household is prepared. Taking simple steps now can protect your family, your property,… Read moreā¦
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Enjoy your Cookoutā¦ Safely!
As Spring has now arrived, many of us will be firing up our outside cooking grills. Grill fires are one of the common fires KMFD respond to, sometimes spreading to outside decks and structure. While barbecuing can be enjoyable, it also presents significant fire risks if proper precautions are not followed. Fire departments across the… Read moreā¦
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Carbon Monoxide: The Silent Killer
This is usually the time of year the KMFD gets carbon monoxide (CO) alarms due to the increased use of electrical generators, space heaters and doors and windows being kept closed during colder weather. CO is often called the āsilent killerā because it is colorless, odorless and tasteless. Even at low levels, CO can cause… Read moreā¦
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Honoring Our Volunteers and Looking Ahead
Iād like to take this opportunity in the first 2026 Echo to thank all the KMFD volunteers, Board, and community volunteers who consistently provided a high level of support for Kings Mountain residents and visitors in 2025. The KMFD could not provide this high level of service without the strong community support and involvement that… Read moreā¦
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Thanks to our Volunteers and Supporters
Iād like to thank all the KMFD volunteers, Board, and community volunteers who consistently provide the high level of support for Kings Mountain residents and visitors in 2025.Ā The KMFD could not provide this high level of service without the strong community support and involvement that we see consistently throughout the year. As a quick… Read moreā¦
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The Cozy Trap: Hidden Dangers of Winter Heating
As we approach colder weather, many of us on Kings Mountain are firing up (pardon the pun!) our wood burning stoves, fireplaces, and portable heaters. It can be an economical method for heating, along creating a cozy warm living atmosphere inside the house. Perfect, right? What could go wrong? Heating equipment is a leading cause… Read moreā¦
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Support Fast Responses!
People often inquire how they can help the fire department, even without becoming a KMFD firefighter or medical responder. There are a great number of simple actions that help the KMFD provide better emergency services. Iāve listed a few of these below: If you have any questions or need more details regarding the above suggestions,… Read moreā¦
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Chief’s Chat on Fundraising
The KMFD is very appreciative of the great community support for putting on another very successful Kings Mountain Art Fair, benefiting community organizations including the KMFD. Many people donāt realize, the majority of the volunteer fire departments across the US are supported through local, State, and Federal funding, via taxes and special assessments. In San… Read moreā¦