Dear Editor,

Last Wednesday evening, my family experienced every homeowner’s worst nightmare when an electrical fire broke out in our kitchen on Garner Bagnal Boulevard. Within four minutes of our 911 call, Statesville Fire Department Engine 1 was at our door.

The professionalism, speed, and compassion shown by the firefighters that night was extraordinary. They not only extinguished the fire and prevented it from spreading but also helped us secure the house, connected us with Red Cross resources, and checked on our elderly neighbor who had been alarmed by the commotion.

In a moment of crisis, these men and women reminded us what community truly means. We are deeply grateful to the Statesville Fire Department and to the dispatchers who kept us calm while help was on the way. Thank you for keeping our city safe.

Robert and Linda Jamison, Statesville