Fire Marshal
The Fire Marshal’s Office is responsible for a wide variety of tasks that directly relate to the life safety of Henderson County citizens. From fire investigations, building plan review, routine inspections, response to large scale emergencies and training for firefighters and rescue workers, the Henderson County Fire Marshal’s office plays a vital role in keeping our citizens safe.
In 1991, North Carolina adopted and put into law the North Carolina State Fire Prevention Code. This code has been in effect since then and is enforced all over the State. Henderson County’s Fire Marshal office was established in 1992 to ensure the Fire Prevention Code is met.
FIRE INVESTIGATION
The Fire Marshal’s office is responsible for investigation of fires in cooperation with local and state law enforcement agencies. A Fire Department Chief may also request the Fire Marshal’s assistance in trying to determine the cause and origin of fires.
PLAN REVIEW
Fire Marshal’s Office conducts building plan reviews to ensure current North Carolina Fire Prevention Code requirements are met. During and after construction, Fire Inspectors ensure and test fire prevention systems for proper installation and operation.
ROUTINE INSPECTIONS
Fire Inspectors conduct routine inspections of businesses, schools, foster homes, daycares on either a one, two or three year cycle as outlined in the North Carolina Fire Prevention Code. Fire Inspectors also issue permits as outline in the Fire Prevention Ordinance.
RESPONSE
During large-scale emergencies, personnel within the Fire Marshal’s office work around the clock to coordinate the disaster/emergency response and to provide timely information to emergency personnel, county officials, and the citizens of Henderson County.
TRAINING
Training is provided for County firefighters and rescue workers at the Herman S. Weisburg Training Center on the Blue Ridge Community College campus. The office of the Fire Marshal provides support and assistance in numerous ways to the Henderson County Fire Departments and other emergency services.
STAFF
The Fire Marshal’s Office staff consists of Fire Marshal Kevin Waldrup, Deputy Fire Marshal Glen Gillette and Assistant Fire Marshal Molly Hover.
