Gerton Fire and Rescue

06/20/2026

06/19/2026

We want to remind everyone that we will be celebrating our 50th anniversary on July 11. We will have an open house at our station from 11-2. We are raffling off an STIHL MS261 chainsaw. Tickets are available at the station or from any of our members. The tickets are $5 each or 5 for $20. While this celebration is two years late, we want to thank our community and all those who supported us over the last 50 years with cake and goodies. Many thanks to By-pass Power in Waynesville for the donation of the saw.
We hope you will come out and support us as we celebrate. We will have demonstrations and show off all of our newest equipment and how we are prepared to serve you. Stay safe!
By-Pass Power Equipment
-pass power equipment

06/18/2026

The internet may tell you to climb that waterfall. Emergency responders would prefer you didn't…

There's nothing quite like cooling off in one of North Carolina's many swimming holes, waterfalls, lakes or rivers. These places often feel other-worldly, leaving visitors in awe of the expansive mountain scenery and refreshing water, but they also come with hidden hazards that can turn dangerous in an instant.

Before you take the plunge, keep these safety tips in mind:

• Never climb on waterfalls or wet rocks. Surfaces can be extremely slippery, even when they appear dry.
• Avoid hydraulic currents. Powerful recirculating currents at the base of waterfalls can trap even strong swimmers.
• Be cautious in deep or fast moving water. Hidden rocks, logs and sudden depth changes can cause severe injuries.
• Swim with a buddy. Never swim alone and supervise children carefully.
• Know your limits. Only enter water if you're a confident swimmer and conditions are safe.
• Wear a life jacket when appropriate. Especially in rivers, deep water or areas with strong currents.

A little caution goes a long way. Enjoy the waterways surrounding National Forests in North Carolina, safely.

Photo: Elk Falls. USDA Forest Service photo by Dana Hodde.