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KENANSVILLE — Local leadership is looking at solutions to help residents of Holland Road area in Duplin County who have been facing high insurance rates due the area’s designation as protected class 10, which is the lowest level of fire protection. Officials have acknowledged the growing concerns about homeowners’ insurance costs in the Holland Road area, which have worsened since the closure of a nearby fire substation previously manned by the Kenansville Fire Department.
Earlier this year, resident Mary Grady expressed deep concern over her homeowner’s insurance increase, more than doubling, jumping from around $700 to over $2,000 last year. Her home is located outside the six-mile emergency response zone, which impacts insurance rates.
Matthew Barwick, Public Safety Director and Fire Marshal, told Duplin Journal that while emergency public safety services are still being provided to that area, the absence of a nearby operational fire station has negatively impacted the community’s fire protection rating.
This, in turn, limits homeowners’ ability to obtain affordable insurance coverage.
Barwick explained that re-establishing a fire station within the required proximity is crucial to resolving the issue. However, this effort requires careful planning, significant resources, and, most importantly, sufficient volunteer staffing. He also mentioned that Fire Chief Robert Whitman has indicated the Kenansville Fire Department is willing to reopen a station in the area, but this can only occur if they have enough local volunteers.
“Additional volunteer members from that area are needed, and this cannot be accomplished without them,” said Barwick. “Among other requirements to attain this insurance coverage, the North Carolina Department of Insurance requires fire departments to maintain a minimum of 15 members per primary fire station and an additional four members for each sub-station established.”
County Manager Brian Miller told Duplin Journal that after meeting with Barwick to discuss solutions they decided to host a community event to get the public involved.
“What those folks really need is more volunteers. Without the volunteers, it’s hard for them to provide the service,” said Miller.
Most fire departments in Duplin effectively function through volunteer service. Barwick shared that this reliance on volunteers helps keep costs down for taxpayers. Still, volunteers receive the same state-recognized certifications as paid firefighters.
“Not only does this better train you as a volunteer firefighter, but it can also prepare you and likely help you be a step ahead of others seeking a career at a public safety organization,” Barwick explained. “Many employers of all types recognize the time and dedication it takes to be a volunteer firefighter and know that their work ethic, integrity, and teamwork attitude will undoubtedly spill into any profession they choose.”
For Barwick, the most meaningful part of serving is the opportunity to make a difference during critical moments.
“When someone calls for our services, they are likely having one of the worst days of their life, and in our small communities, it is likely a neighbor, friend, or family member. To be able to positively impact that situation and help a fellow person and their family in a time of need, to limit their suffering, is why we should all consider answering the call.”
Persons interested in volunteering may contact their local fire department. To learn more about opportunities to serve your community, visit the Duplin Events Center on May 31 at noon. EMS Community Day will not only have available opportunities but also will feature first-aid instruction, touch-a-truck exhibits, hands-on activities for children, vendors, and entertainment for the whole family.
