Firefighters’ efforts save money for homeowners

Hiwassee Dam – There are many good reasons why local residents are admiring their new fire station and thanking the people who staff its all-volunteer crew. One of those reasons is saving money on their homeowner’s insurance. 

The mercury flirted with 70 degrees as a sunny day greeted families attending the TL McNabb Hiwassee Dam Fire Department’s open house Oct. 23. Lt. Dave Artzner was one of the many volunteers on hand to show off the modern facility and brag a bit about what they’ve accomplished over the last few years, including an improved fire risk rating.

The independent Insurance Services Office doles out ratings for fire departments nationwide. A public protection classification, it’s a number from 1-10 with the lower the score, the better. Determining factors are fire hydrants, equipment and responder training, Artzner said. Rural areas are typically rated ISO-9.

In 2019, Hiwassee Dam’s fire rating improved by 4 points, to ISO-5, which includes residents serviced by the Bear Paw and Wehutty volunteer fire departments. The Ranger Volunteer Fire Department accomplished the same goal last year.

Because ratings can directly affect property insurance costs, homeowners saw their annual premiums go down. Artzner said that households saved $350-600 a year. Hiwassee Dam has maintained its rating since.

Another reason for residents to smile is the department’s responsiveness. Because it’s home to 10 spacious bays, the 11,600-square-foot building can house all trucks and rescue equipment in one central location. That makes it easier for firefighters to gear up and get rolling quickly.

Next to Artzner’s table, WCNG radio’s Max Norton broadcast the event live, removing his headphones whenever somebody approached to say hello. Those touring the administrative offices and multi-purpose rooms were animated with compliments about the design. Kids jumped in an inflatable bounce house as aromatic grilling smells wafted across the grounds.

Fire Chief Chad McNabb beamed as he took it all in.

“We’ve dreamed about this for a very long time,” he said. “But the actual start to finish was about two years.”

The official ribbon-cutting ceremony took place last month. McNabb has much to be proud of, and the same enthusiasm he displayed was evident on all the volunteers’ faces spread between shiny trucks and educational displays.

Ann Lukens, a safety educator, handed out information as she spoke about the junior firefighter program. It’s open to qualifying students ages 14-18. Their parents and school must approve, and a background check is required.

Melody Starks, a registered nurse who handles medical supplies and teaches CPR for the fire department, was on kitchen duty during the event. Foil-wrapping barbecue sandwiches, she bragged on all the high-schoolers who are junior firefighters. Not only are they learning new skills and fire safety, but they’re also demonstrating civic-mindedness as they invest time to improve their community.

Near the station’s front entrance, Cherokee County Ranger Phillip Raby demonstrated a Stihl backpack leaf blower, explaining to those gathered around his table why such tools have become standard firefighting gear in recent years. In heavily wooded areas like Cherokee County, leaves and pine needles can quickly become fuel for a fire, he said. Creating a line that is free of debris has proven extremely helpful in keeping brush fires from spreading.  

Behind Raby’s display, youngsters – some sporting brightly painted faces – gathered around a red rubber rescue boat. A few climbed inside to play, oblivious of the milestone being celebrated around them.

McNabb’s daughter, Olivia, was also happy for this day to come.

“My dad has waited so long for this. He’s really excited,” she said. “Everyone is.”

To donate or volunteer, call the station at 828-644-9032 and leave a message. You can also email chief@hiwasseedamfire.com.