Durham County Fire Marshal

Fire Prevention Week Tip #5: Charge Large Items Outside

Whenever possible, charge e-bikes, scooters, and power tools outdoors, and never block an exit while charging. These batteries store more energy, and fires can grow quickly if they fail.
Giving big batteries space keeps everyone safer.

Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts reminds us: “Large batteries require extra space as they have the potential to heat up during the charging process. These batteries should always be charged outdoors and away from anything that can burn.”

More information is available at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week or https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

Fire Prevention Week Tip #4: Fully Charged? Unplug.

Unplug your device once it reaches a full charge. Keeping it plugged in longer than necessary adds heat and stress to the battery, both of which increase fire risk.

Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts encourages everyone to make unplugging part of their safety routine.
“Overcharging devices can lead to batteries that swell, overheat and start to release unwanted energy resulting in fire.”

Learn more at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week or https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

May his memory be a blessing.

We are heartbroken to share that Firefighter Andrew Brokes died in the line of duty this morning while searching for victims inside the building at 410 Marly Drive.

Firefighter Brokes, who joined the Durham Fire Department on May 5, 2025, served the Durham community with dedication, courage, and a deep commitment to the residents of the Bull City.

“This is a heartbreaking loss for our department, the family, and the entire community,” said Durham Fire Chief Robert J. Zoldos II. “Our thoughts and prayers are with his loved ones and his colleagues, and we ask that you respect the family’s privacy during this unimaginably difficult time. The department is standing with and supporting his family in every possible way.”

Two other firefighters were injured during the incident and were taken to Duke Medical Center. Both have received care and are expected to make full recoveries.

This loss is felt across our entire department. Firefighters step into unpredictable situations every day in service to others, and Firefighter Brokes embodied that calling with honor.

We know our community is grieving alongside us. If you wish to share your condolences or messages of support, they will be received with gratitude by our department and by those who knew and loved Firefighter Brokes.

In the coming days, we will share more information about how we will honor his service and support the firefighters involved in this incident.

Thank you, Durham, for surrounding our DFD family with care during this profoundly difficult time.

We extend our deepest sympathies to the Durham Fire Department following the death of one firefighter and injuries to two others on a structure fire early this morning.

DURHAM FIREFIGHTER KILLED IN THE LINE OF DUTY

(DURHAM COUNTY, N.C) — The North Carolina State Bureau of Investigation received a request for assistance from the City of Durham Fire Department regarding an early-morning structure fire. Around 3:15 AM today, a 911 call reported a fire at 410 Marly Dr., Durham, NC. The first fire truck arrived at 3:21 AM, and smoke and flames were visibly coming from the structure. Firefighters began their work, and additional units were en route.

The structure is a multi-story commercial building that appears to have been used as a residence. Firefighters made entry into the building and began battling the blaze. At 3:31 AM, a portion of the building's roof collapsed, causing the second floor to collapse as well. Multiple firefighters were on the roof and inside on the first floor during the collapse. Several firefighters on the first floor were trapped. As a result, one of the firefighters was killed in the line of duty, and two others were injured. The two injured were taken to Duke Medical Center for treatment. All occupants evacuated the building before the fire department arrived and were not injured.

The SBI’s Arson Unit was requested to investigate the cause and origin of the fire and the circumstances of the fatality. The SBI has special agents on scene collecting evidence and investigating. The SBI will be the lead investigating agency for this event.

The following agencies responded and are working the event in some capacity:

-- City of Durham Fire Department
-- City of Durham Police Department
-- Durham County EMS
-- Durham County Sheriff's Office
-- Durham City/County Emergency Management
-- Durham County Fire Marshal’s Office
-- Raleigh Fire Department
-- ATF
-- North Carolina OSFM
-- SBI

This is an active and ongoing investigation, and additional information may be released by the SBI when available.

City of Durham, NC Government NC OSFM North Carolina Association of Chiefs of Police NC Sheriffs' Association Governor Josh Stein Durham Police Department Durham County Sheriff's Office ATF Durham County Government

Fire Prevention Week Tip #3: Hot Devices

If your device’s battery smells strange, feels unusually warm, makes popping noises, changes shape or color, or you see smoke, stop using it right away. If it’s safe, move it away from anything that can catch fire.

Damaged batteries can overheat and spark fires. A quick tip from Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts: “If you notice a device behaving unusually - such as changing shape or making odd noises - place it outside on a gravel or concrete surface, away from anything that could catch fire.”

More information is available at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week or https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

Fire Prevention Week Tip #2: Don’t Charge On Soft Surfaces

Charge your devices on a hard, flat surface like a table, desk, or floor. Soft surfaces, like beds, couches, pillows, can trap heat and restrict airflow, causing batteries to overheat.

A quick tip from Fire Marshal Fitts: “ Never charge your devices in your bed. Devices can be easily caught in between pillows and blankets and cause unwanted fires both quickly and without warning.”

Learn more at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week or https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

Fire Prevention Week Tip #1: Don’t Use a Cheap Charger

Always use the cord and charger that came with your device, or one approved by the manufacturer. The wrong charger can damage your battery and increase the risk of fire.

A quick tip from Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts: “Using chargers that are not manufacturer approved increases the risk of an unwanted fire. Always check to ensure you are using the correct charger for your device.”

More information is available at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week or https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

The Durham County Fire Marshal’s Office is partnering with the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to kick off Fire Prevention Week™ (October 4–10). This year’s theme is Charge into Fire Safety™: Safe Charging Is a Superpower.

Simple, everyday actions can help prevent lithium-ion battery fires. Use your charging superpower by making smart, safe choices every time you plug in.

A quick tip from Fire Marshal Fitts: “Lithium-ion batteries can present a hazard even when they are not charging. Storing your batteries in a cool, dry place can be just as important as safely charging them.”

More information is available at https://www.nfpa.org/events/fire-prevention-week and https://dconc.gov/Emergency-Services/Education/Fire-Safety

As many in our community prepare for a celebratory Fourth of July evening, Durham County Fire Marshal Tyler Fitts shares this important safety message focused on fireworks safety and laws:

Hello Durham County,

As Independence Day approaches, I want to take a moment to highlight the importance of fireworks safety and understanding North Carolina’s firework laws. This season consistently brings an increased risk of fires and injuries, which can be prevented through awareness and responsible choices.

According to the Office of the State Fire Marshal, North Carolina sees an average of 192 emergency department visits each year due to fireworks-related injuries. Nearly 72% of those injuries happen in July, right in line with holiday celebrations. The most common injuries are burns to the hands, face, eyes, and other extremities, and these account for almost half of all emergency room cases. Nationwide, fireworks have led to 14,700 emergency room visits and 11 deaths in recent years, underscoring the dangers that come with improper use.

In North Carolina, as a general rule: any fireworks that leave the ground or explode are illegal for personal use. Safer, legal alternatives include sparklers, smoke devices, snakes, and other ground based items that do not launch or detonate.

Hot and dry weather—like what we are currently experiencing—further increases fire danger. Under these conditions, even a small spark can ignite grass, brush, or nearby structures.

To help keep our community safe, consider low risk ways to celebrate, such as crafting holiday-themed projects with children, using glow sticks, or attending professional fireworks displays. If you do choose to use fireworks, ensure that only adults handle them, and always keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby in case of an emergency.

By staying informed and taking simple precautions, we can work together to prevent avoidable injuries and ensure a safe and enjoyable holiday for everyone in Durham County. For questions or more information our team can be contacted at 919-560-0660 or [email protected]

Best Regards,

Tyler Fitts
Chief Fire Marshal







Durham County Fire Marshal
Durham City/County Emergency Management

This message was originally shared in the July 2nd Durham This Week Online found here: https://mailchi.mp/dconc/here-is-durham-this-week-online-for-july-2-2026