Established in 1955
September 10, 2024
The Cumberland Road Fire Department and several of its members, past and present were recognized during the 6th annual Greater Fayetteville Chamber Public Safety Valor Awards.
The department received a unit citation for its exceptional efforts in promoting home fire safety and smoke alarm installations.
For their commendable service, while working on the scene of a fire on February 19th, 2024 where their actions directly resulted in the saving of a life, Firefighter Elijah McClinton received an award of Valor. Firefighters Micah Williams, Deitren Jackson, and Nikolai Van Kan, received Life Saving awards.
Past Fire Chiefs Arnold J. Koonce and James E. Hall were honored with the Hall of Fame Award.
Current Fire Chief Steven Parrish received the 2024 Freddy L. Johnson, Sr. Leadership Award.
Congratulations to all.
September 9, 2025
Department Members Honored with Merit Awards
Two members of the Cumberland Road Fire Department were recently recognized during the 7th Annual Greater Fayetteville Chamber Public Safety Valor Awards.
Firefighter Paul Dixon received the Merit Award for his exceptional dedication and support during the implementation of the department’s new records management system. His commitment ensured a smooth transition and improved efficiency for our operations.
Firefighter Ed Samuelian was honored with the Merit Award for his proactive efforts and instrumental role in securing funding to acquire extrication equipment for our first-out engine. His initiative has directly enhanced our department’s ability to respond to emergencies and serve the community.
We are proud of their outstanding contributions and congratulate them on this well-deserved recognition.
The Cumberland Road Fire Department Makes History as First County Fire Station to Achieve ISO Class 1 Rating
Oct 15, 2025
FAYETTEVILLE, N.C. – The Cumberland Road Fire Department has achieved a milestone in fire protection and public safety, earning a Class 1 Public Protection Classification (PPC) rating from the Insurance Services Office (ISO). This marks the first time a county fire department in Cumberland County has received a Class 1 rating, which is the highest possible score.
North Carolina Fire Marshal Brian Taylor officially presented Cumberland Road Fire Department its Class 1 Rating in a ceremony held at the fire station today. Cumberland Road Fire Chief Steven Parrish accepted the rating. Cumberland Road is only the 38th fire department in the state to receive the Class 1 Rating.
The ISO rating system evaluates fire departments nationwide on key factors such as emergency communications, fire suppression capabilities, community risk reduction, staffing, equipment, training and water supply. A Class 1 designation places Cumberland Road Fire Department among the top fire protection agencies in the country. Fewer than 1% of departments nationwide achieve this elite rating.
“This achievement is a testament to the dedication of our firefighters, leadership, and community partners who work every day to protect lives and property,” said Cumberland Road Fire Chief Steven Parrish. “Reaching Class 1 reflects years of training, planning, and investment in public safety. Most importantly, it shows our citizens that they can count on world-class fire protection.”
The improved ISO rating can also benefit residents and businesses financially, as many insurance companies use ISO classifications to help determine property insurance premiums. A Class 1 designation often translates into lower insurance costs for homeowners and businesses.
“We are proud that Cumberland Road is leading the way for Cumberland County,” said Cumberland County Fire Commissioner Henry Tyson. “Their achievement represents not only professional excellence but also a stronger, safer community for all of us.”
The Cumberland Road Fire District serves approximately 9,000 residents across five square miles from a single fire station. The district includes a mix of single-family homes, multi-family units, manufactured housing communities, and a variety of commercial occupancies such as retail businesses, offices, daycares, churches and a major manufacturing facility.
Despite being the smallest fire district in Cumberland County by geographic area, Cumberland Road responds to one of the highest volumes of emergency calls. With major roadways running through the district and continued residential and commercial growth, the department consistently answers thousands of calls each year. This recognition reaffirms its commitment to continuous improvement and protecting the community at the highest standard possible.