Positions inside hearth departments in North Carolina embody a spread of roles essential for public security. These positions embrace firefighters, emergency medical technicians (EMTs), paramedics, hearth inspectors, hearth investigators, and administrative personnel. The provision of particular roles relies on the scale and desires of particular person hearth departments throughout the state.
These profession alternatives are very important to sustaining neighborhood well-being by offering hearth suppression, emergency medical companies, and public training on hearth prevention. Traditionally, volunteer hearth departments had been the norm, however as populations have grown, the necessity for paid, full-time professionals has elevated, enhancing the extent of service and experience obtainable to residents. Securing such a place affords people the prospect to contribute on to the security and safety of their communities whereas constructing a secure and rewarding profession.
The next sections will delve into the {qualifications}, utility processes, coaching necessities, and prospects related to pursuing a profession inside North Carolina’s hearth service. Additional particulars will discover the several types of departments, geographic distributions of alternatives, and sources obtainable to aspiring candidates.
1. {Qualifications}
Entry into hearth division employment in North Carolina is essentially decided by a candidate’s {qualifications}. These stipulations function important gatekeepers, guaranteeing that people possess the required expertise, data, and bodily capabilities to carry out successfully in high-stress, probably life-threatening conditions. For instance, most departments mandate, at minimal, a highschool diploma or GED equal. Moreover, Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification is usually required, reflecting the twin function many firefighters play as first responders to medical emergencies. With out assembly these foundational {qualifications}, an applicant’s candidacy for these positions is unlikely to proceed. Fireplace departments reminiscent of Charlotte Fireplace Division or Raleigh Fireplace Division typically record EMT certification at least qualification.
Past the fundamental necessities, specialised {qualifications} considerably improve an applicant’s competitiveness. Possessing certifications in superior firefighting strategies, hazardous supplies dealing with, or technical rescue operations distinguishes candidates and aligns them with the evolving calls for of recent hearth service. A demonstrated historical past of neighborhood involvement, volunteer expertise, or related navy service additionally showcases an applicant’s dedication and preparedness for the pains of public service. These {qualifications} not solely bolster an applicant’s resume but in addition mirror a proactive dedication to skilled growth. A related instance is a structural collapse certification, indicating experience in rescuing people from collapsed buildings.
In abstract, stringent adherence to specified {qualifications} is paramount for securing hearth division jobs in North Carolina. These standards guarantee competence, security, and the supply of efficient emergency companies to the general public. Overlooking or failing to satisfy these requirements presents a big problem to potential candidates, emphasizing the significance of strategic planning and proactive ability growth for people pursuing careers inside the state’s hearth service.
2. Coaching
Complete coaching varieties the cornerstone of fireplace division employment in North Carolina, straight influencing the efficacy and security of emergency response operations. The correlation between rigorous coaching packages and competent hearth service personnel is simple; inadequate coaching results in elevated dangers for each firefighters and the general public they serve. Preliminary recruit coaching, sometimes carried out at regional or state hearth academies, imparts elementary expertise in hearth suppression, rescue strategies, hazardous supplies consciousness, and emergency medical care. This foundational coaching, lasting a number of weeks or months, equips recruits with the baseline data and sensible skills required to perform inside a hearth division. Take into account, as an illustration, the North Carolina Fireplace and Rescue Fee’s standardized curriculum, which mandates a minimal variety of educational hours throughout numerous disciplines earlier than certification is granted.
Past preliminary certification, ongoing coaching is essential for sustaining proficiency and adapting to evolving hazards and applied sciences. Superior programs in specialised rescue, incident command, and hearth investigation allow firefighters to develop experience in area of interest areas, enhancing the general capabilities of the division. Common drills and simulations reinforce realized expertise and promote teamwork, guaranteeing a coordinated and efficient response throughout real-world emergencies. Departments that prioritize persevering with training reveal a dedication to excellence and are higher positioned to mitigate dangers related to more and more advanced emergency conditions. An instance of this dedication is the institution of regional coaching facilities that supply superior programs and certification packages to fireplace personnel throughout the state.
In conclusion, the extent and high quality of coaching straight impression the efficiency and security of fireplace service personnel, with a consequential impression on neighborhood security. The funding in complete coaching packages, from preliminary recruit academies to ongoing skilled growth, is crucial for guaranteeing that North Carolina’s hearth departments are geared up to satisfy the challenges of recent emergency response. Failure to prioritize coaching exposes firefighters to pointless dangers and undermines the effectiveness of fireplace safety companies, highlighting the important hyperlink between coaching and profitable careers inside the hearth service.
3. Certification
Certification holds a pivotal function in securing and sustaining employment inside North Carolina hearth departments. It serves as a standardized validation of a person’s competence and proficiency in important firefighting and emergency medical expertise. With out acceptable certifications, an applicant’s prospects are considerably diminished, and continued employment typically hinges on sustaining present credentials.
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Firefighter Certification
This certification, typically based mostly on the requirements set by the Nationwide Fireplace Safety Affiliation (NFPA), verifies a person’s data and expertise in hearth suppression, rescue operations, and unsafe supplies response. It’s typically a compulsory prerequisite for employment as a firefighter in North Carolina. As an illustration, the North Carolina Fireplace and Rescue Fee affords firefighter certifications aligned with NFPA requirements.
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Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Certification
Many hearth departments in North Carolina function as dual-role companies, requiring firefighters to additionally perform as EMTs. Due to this fact, EMT certification, awarded by the North Carolina Workplace of Emergency Medical Providers, is regularly a hiring requirement. This certification equips firefighters with the power to offer primary medical care at emergency scenes, growing their worth to the division.
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Hazardous Supplies Certification
Given the potential for encountering hazardous supplies incidents, certification in hazardous supplies operations or technician degree is usually mandated or extremely fascinating. These certifications reveal competency in figuring out, containing, and mitigating hazardous materials releases, thereby defending each the firefighter and the general public. Specialised coaching programs, typically aligned with EPA rules, are mandatory to acquire these certifications.
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Specialised Certifications
Departments typically worth, and generally require, specialised certifications to satisfy the wants of the area people. Examples of those specialised certifications embrace Technical Rescuer, Car and Equipment Rescuer, or Swift Water Rescue. These expertise equip personnel to reply to particular threats to native residents by licensed professionals.
The acquisition and upkeep of those certifications characterize a steady dedication to skilled growth and competence inside the hearth service. North Carolina hearth departments prioritize licensed people, recognizing that correct certification interprets to enhanced security, improved service supply, and better total effectiveness in defending the neighborhood from hearth and different emergencies. A person’s capability to acquire and keep certifications is a key determinant of their success in securing and retaining a place inside hearth departments throughout the state.
4. Places
Geographic location considerably influences the supply and traits of fireplace division employment in North Carolina. The distribution of profession alternatives mirrors inhabitants density and the prevalence of fireplace danger elements throughout the state. Metropolitan areas, reminiscent of Charlotte, Raleigh, and Greensboro, sometimes function bigger, full-time hearth departments with various specialised items. Conversely, rural counties could rely extra closely on volunteer or mixture departments, providing fewer full-time positions. Proximity to industrial zones, main transportation routes, or in depth forested areas additionally dictates the particular experience and sources required of native hearth departments, thereby affecting the sorts of positions obtainable. As an illustration, coastal communities typically require personnel skilled in water rescue, whereas departments in mountainous areas could prioritize wildland firefighting expertise. These examples point out the direct impression of geographic context on the character of fireplace service employment alternatives.
The compensation and advantages related to hearth division positions can range significantly relying on location. Departments in bigger cities typically provide extra aggressive salaries and complete advantages packages in comparison with these in smaller, much less prosperous communities. This disparity displays variations in municipal budgets, value of residing, and the extent of demand for certified personnel. Moreover, geographic accessibility performs a task in recruitment and retention efforts. Departments positioned in fascinating areas could discover it simpler to draw and retain certified candidates, whereas these in additional distant or much less enticing places could face challenges in staffing. Due to this fact, potential candidates ought to rigorously take into account location-specific elements when evaluating employment prospects.
In abstract, geographic location represents a important variable within the panorama of fireplace division employment throughout North Carolina. It influences the supply, kind, compensation, and competitiveness of profession alternatives. Understanding the geographic distribution of fireplace danger, inhabitants density, and financial elements is crucial for people searching for to enter or advance inside the state’s hearth service. The placement of the division and its traits form the day-to-day operations. Recognition of geographic affect will assist in a productive job search.
5. Wage
Compensation, or wage, constitutes a elementary facet of fireplace division positions in North Carolina, influencing each recruitment and retention inside these very important public service roles. The incomes potential related to these positions is a important issue for people contemplating a profession within the hearth service and for these searching for to advance inside the area. Salaries range considerably based mostly on a number of determinants, together with expertise, rank, division measurement, geographic location, and the extent of specialised certifications held. For instance, a beginning firefighter in a rural county would possibly earn significantly lower than a seasoned captain in a metropolitan hearth division. This disparity underscores the affect of things past merely the job title itself. Understanding these variables is crucial for precisely assessing the monetary implications of pursuing a given profession path inside the North Carolina hearth service.
The allocation of municipal or county budgets straight impacts wage constructions inside hearth departments. Bigger jurisdictions with better tax revenues are sometimes in a position to provide extra aggressive compensation packages, attracting a bigger pool of certified candidates and probably lowering turnover charges. Moreover, collective bargaining agreements typically play a big function in figuring out wage scales and profit packages for unionized hearth departments. The presence of a robust union can advocate for improved compensation and dealing situations, contributing to a extra secure and professionalized workforce. An illustrative instance is the negotiation of hazard pay or specialised certification stipends, which straight affect the general incomes potential for firefighters in particular roles or with specific experience. In distinction, smaller or much less prosperous jurisdictions could face budgetary constraints that restrict their capability to supply aggressive salaries, probably resulting in recruitment challenges or a reliance on volunteer personnel.
In abstract, wage stands as an important determinant of the attractiveness and sustainability of fireplace division positions in North Carolina. Its affect extends past particular person incomes potential, shaping the general high quality and stability of the hearth service workforce. A complete understanding of the elements affecting compensation, together with expertise, location, price range constraints, and collective bargaining, is crucial for each potential candidates and policymakers searching for to make sure that hearth departments are in a position to appeal to and retain the expert personnel mandatory to guard the communities they serve. Whereas there are alternatives all through North Carolina within the hearth service, the compensation have to be weighed along with your particular wants and desired location.
6. Advantages
Worker advantages characterize a important element of compensation packages related to hearth division positions in North Carolina. These advantages considerably affect a person’s total high quality of life, monetary safety, and long-term well-being, and thus play an important function in attracting and retaining certified personnel. The categories and extent of advantages supplied can range considerably throughout completely different departments, relying on elements reminiscent of price range constraints, union agreements, and the general competitiveness of the native job market. Normal advantages sometimes embrace medical health insurance, life insurance coverage, retirement plans, paid break day (trip and sick depart), and incapacity protection. The presence of complete advantages packages typically serves as a deciding issue for potential candidates evaluating a number of employment affords. The shortage of sufficient advantages can result in greater turnover charges, thereby impacting the steadiness and effectiveness of fireplace division operations. For instance, a sturdy medical health insurance plan can mitigate the monetary burden related to on-the-job accidents, that are statistically extra prevalent within the hearth service than in lots of different professions. Retirement plans, such because the North Carolina Native Governmental Workers’ Retirement System (NCLGERS), present a safe monetary future for firefighters who dedicate years of service to their communities.
Past the usual advantages, some hearth departments in North Carolina could provide extra incentives geared toward enhancing worker well-being {and professional} growth. These can embrace tuition reimbursement for persevering with training, wellness packages centered on bodily and psychological well being, and entry to worker help packages (EAPs) offering confidential counseling companies. Given the high-stress nature of firefighting, entry to psychological well being sources is especially essential for mitigating the chance of burnout and post-traumatic stress dysfunction (PTSD). Moreover, some departments could provide supplemental insurance coverage choices, reminiscent of dental or imaginative and prescient protection, or incentives for sustaining bodily health requirements. The implementation of complete wellness packages demonstrates a dedication to the holistic well-being of firefighters, fostering a supportive work atmosphere and selling long-term well being. Such extra advantages improve the attractiveness of fireplace division jobs and contribute to elevated job satisfaction and worker retention.
In conclusion, advantages are an indispensable component of fireplace division employment in North Carolina, shaping each the person firefighter’s well-being and the general effectiveness of the hearth service. A complete advantages bundle serves as a useful device for attracting and retaining certified personnel, fostering a secure and resilient workforce able to assembly the calls for of emergency response. Whereas budgetary constraints could current challenges to providing in depth advantages, the long-term funding in worker well-being yields important returns when it comes to improved morale, decreased turnover, and enhanced service supply. The availability of strong medical health insurance, retirement plans, and wellness packages underscores a dedication to the people who dedicate their lives to defending the communities they serve.
7. Tasks
The scope of duties related to hearth division positions in North Carolina is in depth and straight impacts the security and well-being of the communities served. These duties prolong far past hearth suppression and embody a various vary of emergency response, prevention, and neighborhood help actions. The efficient execution of those duties is paramount to the general success of fireplace division operations.
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Emergency Response
Responding to a big selection of emergencies, together with construction fires, car accidents, medical calls, and unsafe supplies incidents, varieties a core accountability. Firefighters should assess the scenario quickly, implement acceptable methods, and carry out rescue operations when mandatory. This contains using specialised gear, coordinating with different emergency companies, and offering quick medical care. The effectiveness of emergency response straight correlates with the security of each civilians and first responders.
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Fireplace Prevention and Schooling
Proactively lowering the incidence of fires by means of public training and code enforcement is a important accountability. This includes conducting hearth security inspections of buildings, educating neighborhood members on hearth hazards and prevention strategies, and implementing hearth codes and rules. Profitable hearth prevention packages decrease property injury, accidents, and fatalities, contributing to a safer atmosphere for residents and companies. Particular examples embrace conducting faculty visits to teach youngsters about hearth security and offering free smoke detector installations for low-income households.
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Gear Upkeep and Readiness
Sustaining all hearth equipment, gear, and private protecting gear in a state of readiness is crucial for efficient emergency response. This contains conducting routine inspections, performing mandatory repairs, and guaranteeing that each one gear is functioning correctly. Neglecting gear upkeep can compromise the security of firefighters and hinder their capability to reply successfully to emergencies. Every day checks, weekly inspections, and preventative upkeep schedules are frequent practices inside hearth departments.
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Coaching and Skilled Improvement
Taking part in ongoing coaching workouts {and professional} growth actions is significant for sustaining proficiency in firefighting strategies, emergency medical expertise, and different specialised areas. This contains attending programs, taking part in drills and simulations, and staying present on the most recent developments in hearth service expertise and practices. Steady studying enhances the capabilities of firefighters and ensures they’re ready to deal with a variety of emergency conditions. Such skilled growth will foster a top quality hearth service that protects the residents of North Carolina.
These multifaceted duties underscore the important function that fireplace division personnel play in safeguarding North Carolina communities. The efficient discharge of those duties calls for a excessive degree of ability, dedication, and professionalism, emphasizing the significance of thorough coaching, sturdy gear upkeep, and a proactive strategy to fireplace prevention. The dedication to those duties straight impacts the security, safety, and well-being of the residents of North Carolina. The profitable dealing with of duties ensures the division is working at its highest degree.
8. Development
Alternatives for profession development characterize a big dimension of fireplace division positions in North Carolina. The potential for upward mobility serves as a motivating issue for people pursuing careers within the hearth service, impacting recruitment, retention, and the general high quality of the workforce. Development inside a hearth division sometimes includes a structured development by means of the ranks, from entry-level firefighter to positions reminiscent of lieutenant, captain, battalion chief, and finally, chief. Every promotion entails elevated duties, management roles, and commensurate will increase in wage and advantages. This development is contingent on elements reminiscent of expertise, efficiency evaluations, profitable completion of coaching packages, and aggressive examinations. An people dedication to skilled growth and demonstration of management qualities are key determinants of their capability to advance inside the ranks.
The structured nature of profession development in hearth departments fosters a meritocratic atmosphere, the place people are rewarded for his or her dedication, competence, and contributions to the group. Attaining promotions not solely gives elevated monetary compensation but in addition affords alternatives for better affect and impression inside the division and the neighborhood. For instance, a firefighter who persistently demonstrates distinctive expertise in emergency response and management could also be chosen for promotion to lieutenant, the place they might be answerable for supervising a workforce of firefighters and directing operations at emergency scenes. Profitable efficiency on this function might then result in additional development to captain, battalion chief, or higher-level administrative positions. This profession trajectory is contingent on steady self-improvement by means of training, certifications, and the acquisition of specialised expertise. Many departments provide management academies to domesticate future officers from inside their ranks.
In abstract, the prospect of development constitutes an important component of fireplace division jobs in North Carolina, incentivizing people to pursue careers within the hearth service and to attempt for excellence of their efficiency. The structured development by means of the ranks, based mostly on benefit and achievement, fosters a tradition of professionalism and steady enchancment inside hearth departments. The chance to imagine management roles, affect coverage selections, and contribute to the general effectiveness of the division serves as a robust motivator for firefighters to excel of their duties and search development all through their careers. Whereas development isn’t assured and requires important dedication and energy, the potential for upward mobility stays an important element of the general attraction and long-term viability of fireplace division employment within the state. Recognizing this could profit potential candidates on the lookout for a long run profession.
9. Competitors
The pursuit of employment inside North Carolina hearth departments is characterised by important competitors. The desirability of those positions, stemming from the inherent sense of goal, neighborhood service, and comparatively secure profession prospects, generates a big applicant pool for every obtainable opening. This excessive degree of competitors necessitates that potential candidates distinguish themselves by means of superior {qualifications}, demonstrated expertise, and distinctive efficiency all through the choice course of. The selective nature of hiring ensures that solely probably the most certified people are entrusted with the important duties related to defending lives and property. Departments such because the Charlotte Fireplace Division and Raleigh Fireplace Division, typically obtain tons of, if not 1000’s, of functions for a single entry-level firefighter place.
The aggressive panorama calls for a multifaceted strategy to preparation. Past assembly minimal necessities, candidates typically search extra certifications, reminiscent of superior EMT or paramedic credentials, to boost their standing. Prior volunteer hearth service expertise, navy service, or related tutorial levels can even present a aggressive benefit. The choice course of itself sometimes includes rigorous bodily agility checks, written examinations, psychological evaluations, and complete background checks, designed to evaluate a candidate’s suitability for the demanding and worrying nature of the job. Success on this course of requires not solely technical proficiency but in addition sturdy interpersonal expertise, sound judgment, and the power to carry out successfully underneath strain. Due to this fact, the emphasis on bodily health, related certifications, and background checks could be very excessive in hearth service alternatives.
In abstract, the appreciable competitors for hearth division jobs in North Carolina underscores the significance of thorough preparation and a dedication to excellence. The rigorous choice course of ensures that solely probably the most certified and succesful people are chosen to function firefighters, finally contributing to the security and well-being of the communities they shield. Understanding the aggressive nature of the hiring course of is crucial for potential candidates searching for to enter the hearth service and emphasizes the necessity for proactive ability growth, diligent preparation, and a unwavering dedication to non-public {and professional} excellence.
Incessantly Requested Questions on Fireplace Division Jobs in North Carolina
This part addresses frequent inquiries concerning the pursuit of employment inside North Carolina hearth departments, offering clear and concise solutions to regularly raised questions.
Query 1: What are the minimal {qualifications} sometimes required for entry-level firefighter positions?
The minimal {qualifications} usually embrace a highschool diploma or GED equal, a legitimate driver’s license, and Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) certification. Some departments can also require particular age necessities or residency inside the jurisdiction.
Query 2: Are volunteer hearth service expertise and prior navy service thought-about advantageous through the utility course of?
Volunteer hearth service expertise and prior navy service are usually seen favorably, demonstrating a dedication to public service, teamwork, and self-discipline. These experiences can improve an applicant’s competitiveness.
Query 3: What does the bodily agility take a look at sometimes contain?
The bodily agility take a look at generally assesses a candidate’s power, endurance, and cardiovascular health by means of duties reminiscent of stair climbs, hose drags, gear carries, and simulated rescue operations. Particular necessities range by division.
Query 4: Is there a standardized written examination utilized by all hearth departments in North Carolina?
Whereas some departments could make the most of standardized written examinations, such because the Nationwide Firefighter Choice Stock (NFSI), others develop their very own assessments. The content material sometimes covers matters reminiscent of hearth science, arithmetic, studying comprehension, and mechanical aptitude.
Query 5: What’s the typical length of recruit coaching academies in North Carolina?
The length of recruit coaching academies varies relying on the division and the scope of the curriculum. Academies can vary from a number of weeks to a number of months, encompassing each classroom instruction and sensible workouts.
Query 6: How can people enhance their possibilities of securing employment with a North Carolina hearth division?
People can enhance their probabilities by acquiring related certifications (e.g., superior EMT, paramedic), gaining expertise by means of volunteer hearth service, sustaining glorious bodily health, and completely getting ready for all elements of the choice course of.
These responses present a basis for understanding the important elements of pursuing a profession inside North Carolina’s hearth service.
This concludes the Incessantly Requested Questions part. The subsequent part will provide actionable methods for navigating the job search.
Navigating Fireplace Division Employment in North Carolina
Success in securing a hearth division place in North Carolina requires a strategic and knowledgeable strategy. Proactive planning, diligent preparation, and an intensive understanding of the hiring course of are important for maximizing alternatives.
Tip 1: Prioritize Related Certifications: Buying and sustaining certifications reminiscent of EMT, Paramedic, and Firefighter II are paramount. These certifications reveal foundational competence and improve competitiveness within the applicant pool. Particular certifications can also improve desirability based mostly on the geographic location of the hearth division.
Tip 2: Search Volunteer Expertise: Lively participation in volunteer hearth departments gives invaluable sensible expertise, networking alternatives, and a demonstrable dedication to public service. This expertise strengthens functions and affords insights into the realities of firefighting.
Tip 3: Keep Bodily Health: Firefighting calls for distinctive bodily conditioning. A rigorous and constant health routine, tailor-made to the calls for of the bodily agility take a look at, is essential for achievement. Give attention to cardiovascular endurance, power, and agility.
Tip 4: Analysis Goal Departments: Conduct thorough analysis on particular hearth departments of curiosity. Perceive their mission, values, organizational construction, and neighborhood wants. Tailor functions and interviews to align with the division’s distinctive traits.
Tip 5: Put together Totally for Examinations: Written examinations assess data of fireplace science, emergency medical procedures, and demanding considering expertise. Make the most of research guides, observe checks, and related textbooks to organize comprehensively.
Tip 6: Community and Search Mentorship: Attend hearth service conferences, workshops, and neighborhood occasions to community with present firefighters and division leaders. Search mentorship from skilled professionals to achieve insights and steerage.
Tip 7: Follow Interview Abilities: Interview efficiency is a important issue within the choice course of. Follow answering frequent interview questions, articulating strengths, and conveying a real ardour for the hearth service. Search suggestions from trusted mentors or profession counselors.
These methods spotlight the significance of proactive preparation, steady ability growth, and a strategic strategy to the job search. By implementing the following pointers, potential candidates can considerably improve their prospects of securing a rewarding profession inside North Carolina’s hearth service.
The next part gives a conclusion summarizing the important thing takeaways from this information.
Conclusion
This exploration of fireplace division jobs in NC has revealed the multifaceted nature of those important public service roles. From stringent qualification necessities to the crucial for steady coaching and certification, the trail to securing and sustaining employment inside North Carolina’s hearth service calls for unwavering dedication. Geographic disparities affect availability and compensation, whereas the duties related to these positions prolong far past hearth suppression, encompassing a broad spectrum of emergency response and neighborhood help actions.
The pursuit of a profession inside the hearth departments of North Carolina requires strategic planning, diligent preparation, and a sustained dedication to skilled excellence. As communities throughout the state proceed to depend on the experience and bravado of fireplace service personnel, aspiring candidates should attempt to satisfy the evolving calls for of this very important career. People who embrace the challenges and embody the values of the hearth service will contribute meaningfully to the security and well-being of North Carolina’s residents.
