Salisbury, N.C., (Wednesday, Oct. 12, 2016) – Four members of the Salisbury Fire Department (SFD) and one member of the Locke Township Volunteer Fire Department deployed to Lumberton, N.C., yesterday to assist Robeson County residents and the community with fire protection and recent flooding challenges. The squad traveled with rescue boats and fire engines to assist in the mission.

The SFD is part of a “strike team” of seven deployed units throughout the state whose purpose is fire protection and services in the affected and nearby areas. The deployment is expected to last over a six-day period, but is subject to change given emergency management needs or mission changes at the state level.

“I think I speak for the entire Salisbury community when I say how proud we are of our firefighters and their commitment to serve, not only Salisbury, but wherever needed,” said City Manager W. Lane Bailey. “I wish the group Godspeed and a safe return. We also pray for those along the East Coast who are affected by Hurricane Matthew’s devastation.”

The City of Salisbury will not experience a reduction in services or on-duty responders as SFD personnel can be rotated between Lumberton and Salisbury as necessary. All expenses associated with the deployed team and its equipment are reimbursable throughout North Carolina’s emergency declaration.

Salisbury’s telecommunications radio system has statewide capabilities, which will allow the department to have live, 24-hour radio communication with the team.