Over 550 Emergency Calls in 48 Hours

Emergency responders across Rutherford County handled more than 550 emergency communications calls in 48 hours, underscoring the continued demand placed on local law enforcement, emergency medical services, fire departments, and dispatch personnel.

According to a Rutherford County Emergency Communications radio report obtained by WCAB News over the weekend, dispatchers processed 553 emergency calls during the reporting period.

The calls included responses involving multiple agencies across Rutherford County, including:

• 94 emergency medical service calls

• 168 Rutherford County Sheriff’s Office calls

• 88 Spindale Police Department calls

• 55 Forest City Police Department calls

• 43 Rutherfordton Police Department calls

• 17 Lake Lure Police Department calls

Fire and rescue agencies also responded to numerous incidents, including motor vehicle crashes and fire alarm activations.

Reported fire-related responses included:

• Cliffside Area Fire & Rescue responding to a motor vehicle accident

• Forest City Fire Department responding to a motor vehicle accident

• Lake Lure Fire Department responding to a fire alarm

• Rutherfordton Fire Department responding to a motor vehicle accident

• Sandy Mush Fire & Rescue responding to a motor vehicle accident

• Spindale Fire Department responding to a motor vehicle accident and a fire alarm

The volume of emergency activity reflects the ongoing public safety responsibilities handled daily by Rutherford County agencies, from responding to crashes and medical emergencies to providing law enforcement services and fire protection.

The increase in emergency response activity comes as local officials continue to encourage motorists to practice safe driving habits following several recent crashes throughout the county.

Emergency communications personnel serve as the first link in the response chain, coordinating information between callers, dispatchers, law enforcement officers, EMS crews, and fire departments to help ensure resources are deployed where they are needed.