Chief reminds residents to check chimneys and safety detectors
A Beck Cove family lost their home and belongings in a fire Saturday night.
They were alerted by the family dog and exited the home unharmed.
Bryson City Fire Department was dispatched to the scene at approximately 10:21 p.m.
“Upon arrival, firefighters found heavy fire involvement in the roof and attic area,” said BCFD Chief Charles Bryson, adding that icy roads and frigid temperatures hampered firefighting efforts.
BCFD also lacks 24/7 employees and must rely on volunteers to respond after business hours, despite weather conditions.
The official cause of the fire remains under investigation but based on the residents’ reports and the location of fire upon arrival, Bryson pointed to the fireplace or chimney.
“With the weather we are currently experiencing, we cannot overemphasize the importance of having your chimney cleaned and inspected regularly by a professional and having working smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors installed throughout the home,” he said.
Bryson thanked 911 telecommunicators, local Duke Energy representatives, NDOT employees and neighboring fire departments for their support.
BCFD was assisted by EBCI Cherokee Fire and Rescue, Alarka Volunteer Fire Department West Swain Fire Department and Qualla Fire & Rescue.