Pirate's Chest Fire Doused by OVFD
The building was safely evacuated and no one was injured.
"It was probably about twenty-five minutes 'til we had the fire knocked down good," said OVFD's Assistant Fire Chief Ernie Doshier. "And probably an hour till it was completely out."
Ernie expressed thanks that former OVFD members also showed up, as well as community members who wanted to help.
Ernie couldn't speculate on the cause of the fire, and sent the Current an official OVFD statement: "OVFD nor its members will be speculating on cause or origin of the fire. OVFD has taken part in the initial walk-through with the Dare County Fire Marshal. No other information will be available until after insurance company has completed their work next week."
The Pirate Chest gift shop is owned by Amy Srail, who couldn't be reached for comment.
OVFD is always in need of more member firefighters. They have a heavy training schedule in the winter months because everyone works so much during the summer. Right now is a great time to join! The OVFD has regular meetings every other Thursday at 7pm at the Fire Hall; the next one is December 7th. Stop by, or chat with a firefighter about joining this important community organization.
Donations are welcome, too. OVFD gets most of its funding through grants, donations, and fundraisers such as the annual Firemen's Ball over Memorial Day weekend. If you stay in an Ocracoke Island realty property, you can donate through their office and they will match funds. Or mail a donation to PO Box 332, Ocracoke, NC 27960. Make checks payable to Ocracoke Fire Protection Association (that's the non-profit that operates OVFD). OVFD t-shirts make great holiday gifts -- find them at the Fire Hall or the Island Ragpicker!
"I can think of no more stirring symbol of man’s humanity to man than a fire truck." ~ Kurt Vonnegut
