ENKA-CANDLER, N.C. (828newsNOW) — The Enka-Candler Fire & Rescue Department is launching a comprehensive Urban/Wildland Risk Assessment to prepare for potential hazards from hurricanes, wildfires and winter storms, officials announced this week.
The initiative comes in response to damage caused by Tropical Storm Helene and aims to improve the department’s readiness for emergencies. Fire officials will be surveying areas prone to flooding, storm damage and heavy tree debris to identify high-risk zones.
“We’re worried about this year being worse for wildfires,” Enka-Candler Fire Chief Randy King said. “So, we’re going to go out and do some mitigation — find out where the problem areas are, how much damage there is and then hold a community meeting to talk with residents about what they need to know and how to stay safe.”
Crews will begin assessments immediately, taking photographs and collecting data in vulnerable neighborhoods. Residents are encouraged to share their concerns — such as road or bridge issues, wooded areas with downed trees or frequently flooded zones — by contacting the department directly…