New Hope Fire Department

Yesterday, around 65 firefighters participated in a training burn hosted by New Hope. Every fire department in Orange County had representation at the event. There were also personnel from departments in Durham, Alamance and Chatham counties.
(Structures destined for destruction are, on rare occasions, provided by the property owner for training. When the opportunity comes along, many first responders are ready to participate.)
The general process is to divide the firefighters into 3 or 4 people crews, light a fire in the corner of a room, send the crew in, observe fire behavior firsthand (with an instructor), knock out the fire, exit the structure, rotate to the next crew and do it again.
After a significant number of training evolutions, the fire advanced to the attic, reducing structural integrity. All personnel were removed from the structure, and it was allowed to burn.
Thanks to all who participated in making this a successful training experience. Your positive efforts directly strengthened our ability to serve our communities and neighbors.

Reminder –
Tomorrow, May 30, 2026, New Hope will be conducting live fire training near the intersection of Oak Hill Rd. and Sunrise Rd.
Expect to see and smell smoke in the area. Also, expect to see increased activity along Sunrise Rd. and at our station on Whitfield Rd.
Training today to prepare for tomorrow.

Before firefighters pick up the first tool or hose line, they are already wearing about 50-60 lbs. of protective gear.

Trucks -
New Hope trucks over the years.

Memorial Day – Honoring, remembering and mourning U.S. military personnel who died while serving our country.
This weekend and Monday, take a moment to remember those who gave the ultimate sacrifice.

New Hope had resources and personnel on scene for this woods fire off of Seawell School Rd.
At one point, during a rapidly moving crowning, command had communications tone out “emergency retreat!”.

Before a firefighter steps into a burning building, they are wearing full turnout gear and SCBA.
SCBA – (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus) Just like a SCUBA diver carries compressed air when under water, a firefighter carries compressed air when entering a hazardous environment filled with heat, smoke and toxic fumes. The SCBA pack also includes an alarm system that grows increasingly louder after the firefighter is motionless for a short period of time. This alarm system helps in locating a possible “down” firefighter.
The hand-held portable radio is a critical device for firefighters to share information when seconds count.

🚒 Spring Training Days 2026 🚒

This weekend, members of New Hope Fire Department participated in the Spring Training Days conference hosted by Durham Technical Community College.

Participants had the opportunity to train alongside firefighters from across the region, building and sharpening skills at the Orange County Training Center and Durham Fire Department training grounds on Saturday. The weekend concluded with an incredible live fire training opportunity on Sunday at Hurdle Mills Fire Department, where crews participated in burns involving two acquired structures.

Special thanks to Joshua Whitt for the tremendous work organizing this event and helping provide such valuable hands-on training opportunities for firefighters.

Training like this strengthens skills, teamwork, and preparedness for real-world incidents, and we are grateful to have been part of it. We are already looking forward to participating again next year.