The South Roane County Volunteer Fire Department experienced a relatively calm start to 2026, responding to 16 calls in January and 12 in February. Despite the lower overall volume, roughly half of these incidents were fire-related, including five structure fires, six brush fires, two dumpster fires, and one vehicle fire.

As the community transitions into spring yard work, the department emphasizes the importance of burning brush safely, noting that wind and dry conditions can quickly escalate small piles into dangerous wildfires.

To maintain this period of safety, residents are urged to remain vigilant, follow local burning guidelines, and ensure their smoke detectors are functional, with the department offering free alarms to those in need.