North Myrtle Beach Brush 4 spent days in Pickens County assisting with the Table Rock Complex fire.
See story on page 6
Quick Action Snuffs
Residential Fire
North Augusta Public Safety responded to a residential structure fire.
See story on page 10
Abandoned Building Fire
Knocked Out
Duncan and Wellford units, along with other automatic aid units, responded to a reported residential structure fire.
See story on page 12
Fire in Single-Wide in Colleton Co.
Fire-Rescue Engine 19 arrived to find the single-wide mobile home well involved.
See story on page 15
Springtown Fire Displaces Family
Engine 7 arrived to find a residential dwelling approximately 70-percent involved
See story on page 18
Obituary Fort Lawn Fire Department
Richard A. Hulse
See story on page 29
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State Firefighters’Association . .pages 16-17 Industry News
Training
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Simpsonville Multi-Family Fire
On May 6, 2025, around 0300 hours, Simpsonville Fire Department C shift responded to a multi-family residential structure fire. Crews were met with heavy fire in the rearof the structure upon arrival. The fire was quickly contained and searches led to crews rescuing multiple animals from the apartments. No injuries were reported.
- Submitted by Lieutenant Patrikis, Simpsonville FD
Back-to-Back Bluffton Fires
Bluffton Township Fire District responded to two residential fire incidents on April 13, 2025. While no injuries were reported in eithercase, both incidents highlight the importance of battery safety and chimney maintenance. The first fire occurred just after1615 hours on Hartwell Road. Aneighbornoticed smoke coming from a nearby garage and alerted the residents, who were unaware of the fire. The neighboracted quickly, using a garden hose to knock down the flames before firefighters arrived to take overand complete extinguishment. Fire investigators determined the cause to be accidental, the result of lithium-ion batteries entering a dangerous condition called thermal runaway, a chain reaction where the batteries overheat, break down and eventually catch fire. The second fire took place around 1950 hours on Corley Street. Fire crews responded to reports of flames visible from the top of an outdoor fireplace chimney. The fireplace, part of a covered patio area, had ignited a wooden structure surrounding the chimney. The fire was brought undercontrol before it could spread to the main home.
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
2 Working Fires forDuncan and Wellford
On March 23, 2025, Duncan and Wellford units, along with automatic aid, responded to two working fires. The first, a residential structure fire in Lyman, occurred at 0600 hours and the second, an outbuilding fire in Duncan, was at 2000 hours.
- Courtesy of Duncan FD
N. Myrtle Beach FR Deploys to Table Rock Complex Fire
North Myrtle Beach Brush 4 has been demobilized and headed back to the coast after spending the last seven days in Pickens County assisting with the Table Rock Complex fire. The first deployment: was March 26 to March 28, 2025. It included Lt. Chris Walden, Lt. Keegan Thacker and FF/EMTJacob Elswick. The second deployment on March 28 to March 30 was Lt. Ryan Marrs, Engineer Chris McCarty and FF/EMTJacob Elswick. The third deployment, March 30 to April; 1, consisted of Lt. Josh Beck, Engineer Skip Davis and Engineer Sean McDermott.
We greatly appreciate those who volunteered to deploy as well as our numerous other personnel that stepped up to request to go as well. We are grateful to be able to assist our upstate partners once again. The South Carolina Fire Service has a strong bond all around this state and that has been on display once again with the amount of agencies who sent assistance to Pickens and Greenville counties. Great work once again by SC Firefighter Mobilization, who dealt with a very busy March from one end of the state to the other. - Courtesy of North Myrtle Beach FR
Looks Familiar
CarFire Extends to Home in Grays Hill
Just past 1500 on April 30, 2025, emergency crews were dispatched to a report of a vehicle fire endangering a home on Carolina Avenue in Grays Hill. When firefighters arrived, they found a vehicle undera carport fully involved which had spread to the home. Firefighters quickly extinguished the fire containing most of the fire damage to the exterior wall and saving the home. No injuries were reported. Fire officials said the fire appeared to have started in the engine of the vehicle and was unintentional. This was the second house fire this week for the Burton Fire District, and the 17th structure fire this year.
- Submitted by Burton FD
Just before 2300 hours on April 28, 2025, emergency crews were dispatched to a reported house fire on Lemon Lane in Burton. Fire crews arrived to a single-wide mobile home fully consumed in flames. Both lanes of Joe FrazierRoad were closed, due to the nearest hydrant being on Joe Frazier. It took firefighters overtwo hours to fully extinguish the blaze. Fire crews were hampered due to the home being in the rearof the property, road conditions of Lemon Lane, and the mobile home itself being overgrown with vegetation. One adult male was displaced. Crews were dispatched again to this location fora report of a fire at 0527 hours the following morning. Fire crews arrived to find the mobile home once again fully involved in flames. The fire was deemed suspicious and was underinvestigation.
- Submitted by Burton FD
Quick Action Snuffs
Residential Fire
On April 27, 2025, North Augusta Public Safety responded swiftly to a residential structure fire. The blaze spread rapidly, but thanks to the quick action and exceptional courage of the firefighters, the situation was brought undercontrol. Crews arrived, rapidly assessed the conditions, deployed attack lines, began a transitional attack with the deck gun, and began fire suppression efforts without hesitation. The cause of the fire was undetermined. - Submitted by Ignacio Velasco
Forestry Helps with 3-Acre Brush Fire
North Augusta Public Safety responded to a brush fire near Carolina Springs Spurand Atomic Road, caused during a land clearing operation. The fire covered approximately three acres. Crews worked closely with the South Carolina Forestry Commission, which brought in two bulldozers to create a fire break and played a critical role in containing the blaze. In the days that followed, they also provided aerial support to monitor the area and ensure continued containment.
- Submitted by Ignacio Velasco
Abandoned Building Fire Knocked Out
automatic aid units, responded to Startex Fire District fora reported residential structure fire. Upon arrival, a working fire was declared in a small abandoned outbuilding. Personnel quickly extinguished the fire and returned to service aftera short time.
- Courtesy of Duncan FD
Simpsonville FD Handles
Multi-Vehicle Fire
On April 27, 2025, Simmsonville C Shift Engine 65, Engine 66 and Rescue 65 responded to multiple vehicles on fire in the area of East Curtis and Hedge Streets. Crews quickly extinguished the fire preventing it from spreading to nearby structures. No injuries were reported. - Submitted by Lt. Patrikis, Simpsonville FD
Truck Destroyed in I - 77 Fire
On March 18, 2025, at 1426 hours, Flint Hill Fire Department (FHFD) responded to a reported vehicle fire on I-77 southbound nearthe NC/SC statelines. Avisible headercould be seen from Highway 21 in Fort Mill, SC, to as farnorth as the Ballantyne neighborhood in Charlotte. Due to proximity to the stateline, Charlotte Fire Department Engine 26 was also dispatched on the initial incident. Flint Hill Engine 1 arrived to find a fully involved pickup against the Jersey barrierjust north of Carowinds Boulevard. Firefighters from Flint Hill Engine 1 deployed 100 feet of the 1-3/4 inch bumperline to begin an initial fire attack. Charlotte Engine 26 arrived behind Flint Hill Engine 2 but was cleared from the scene shortly after. Firefighters from FHFD Engine 2 gained access to the hood to cool the engine compartment and check forhotspots using a thermal imaging camera (TIC). Firefighters had the fire undercontrol in approximately 21 minutes. - Fire News photos by FullyInvolvedMediaGroup.com
Recycling CenterFire Extends Overnight
Afire in a debris pile sent out Columbia-Richland 3rd Shift crews to Mid-Carolina Steel and Recycling on the evening of April 16, 2025. Brush Truck 18 arrived to Fairfield Road shortly before 1730 hours to find a large pile of metal scraps on fire. Given the size of the fire and the threat of it spreading to otherstructures more resources were added to the call. Afterseveral hours, the bulk of the fire was eliminated and firefighters continued to flow water onto the pile overnight. - Courtesy of Columbia Richland FD
EVFire on I-20
North Augusta Public Safety responded swiftly to an EVfire on Interstate 20 westbound nearmilemarker6. Crews arrived promptly and extinguished the flames. - Submitted by Igancio Velasco
Fire in Single-Wide in Colleton Co.
At 1553 hours on March 21, 2025, two family members reported hearing a "pop" on theirfront porch. Upon investigation, they found the front porch was on fire. They were able to safely exit the home through the back doorand notify 911. Colleton County FireRescue Engine 19 arrived minutes laterto find the single-wide mobile home well involved. Flames were visible from the front and rearof the home as well as the backyard. Firefighter-Paramedics
deployed multiple handlines to the building and made entry through the front door. They quickly knocked down the bulk of the flames. Crews rescued two unconscious kittens from a bedroom and successfully resuscitated them. The home suffered substantial damage and the cause of the fire was underinvestigation. The Red Cross was assisting the family.
- Courtesy of Colleton County FR
South Carolina State Firefighters’Association
FireWire: Applications Open forLeadership Institute
Applications for the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s Leadership Institute 2025-2026 open June 1, 2025.
The year-long leadership development and educational program is set in an executive-level environment with an emphasis on open communication and group project-based skills. Leadership Institute is offered to individuals to improve and develop fire service leadership at the state level through networking and education pertaining to the many facets of the fire service profession.
“Leadership Institute provides those up-and-coming stars… the opportunity to go out and experience every aspect of the SC fire service,” said Leadership Institute alumni, former Association Executive Director, and current Anderson City Fire Chief Charlie King. “We’re looking for individuals who have the potential to make an impact on the fire service in their communities, not so much on the folks who have a wall full of ribbons and plaques.”
numerous and varied aspects and intricacies of the South Carolina fire service outside of their previous background and experience through exposure to current events and a variety of department experiences from around the state.
Greenville City Deputy Chief David Hindman is a 2014 graduate of the Leadership Institute and says the program exposed him to how the Association supports its members, regardless of department size or resources available.
“Leadership Institute provides those up-and-coming stars… the opportunity to go out and experience every aspect of the SC fire service.”
“Leadership Institute gave us the opportunity to see the Association and the fire service in South Carolina is trying to work together for a common goal,” Hindman said. “You recognize that the association is trying to overcome [gaps and short-comings] and provide resources for everybody in the state and opportunities for everybody in the state.”
Participants are expected to receive a working knowledge of the
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The ideal Leadership Institute participant is a person who has a strong desire for honing their individual leadership knowledge, skills, and abilities beyond typical management skill training and has exhibited prior leadership skills in local or state efforts. Participants will not be judged on the criteria of rank or pay status but instead on their potential to impact future leadership for the Firefighters’Association and South Carolina Fire service aplications are due August 31, 2025.
FireWire: Now Accepting Program Proposals For Fire-Rescue 2026
Fresh off the success of Fire-Rescue 2025, the South Carolina State Firefighters’Association’s Training and Education Committee is already looking forward to providing our members with another excellent conference in June 2026. Our goal is to provide our members with a diverse range of perspectives and insights that will help them stay up to date with the latest trends and best practices.
The South Carolina fire service is overflowing with talent, and we strongly believe in the value local speakers bring to the conference. We are proud to provide our members with a platform that allows them to continue to progress in the fire service as a whole and grow as individuals. Fire-Rescue provides speakers an opportunity to educate, network, and expand their brand.
If you’re knowledgeable and passionate about a topic and have a program developed, consider applying to speak at Fire-Rescue 2026 and allow the Training and Education Committee the opportunity to review your application.
Make sure to submit your application by September 30, 2025 to meet the deadline.
South Carolina State Firefighters’Association
Fire OfficerAcademy: The Company Officer Applications Close June 30
Fire Officer Academy (FOA): The Company Officer is an intense but invaluable experience designed to cultivate the next generation of fire service leaders. Developed by the Officers Section, the academy uses a blended learning environment to provide both classroom knowledge and hands-on experience essential for success as a company officer.
As of today, 116 officers from across South Carolina have graduated from FOA. The program’s impact continues to excel as alumni share the lessons learned from FOAwith their peers.
Engineer Gracie Landry of North Spartanburg Fire District, a recent graduate of FOA24-01, described the program as transformational.
“This program will change your entire mindset and even your heart in some areas. It ignited a whole new level of my passion for the craft that I didn’t know existed. This program isn’t just important to the future of the fire service, it is the future of the fire service,” Gracie wrote in her post-program survey.
Lieutenant Brandon Stroud of the Anderson Fire Department, a graduate of FOA22-01, emphasized the program’s unique value.
“Far exceeded my expectations. It’s more than just a class,” it’s a lifelong experience. I was surprised from beginning to end. From the selection process to the content and layout of the class, to the specific lessons learned, to the camaraderie that was built. Not only did I learn some new things to incorporate, I built relationships with people that I can now carry with me forever. This is a special program that needs to remain special and selective. Granted, all officers need to go through this program, but I don't believe all will get the message and the purpose of the program. I don’t consider myself elite by any means, but I believe
this program is elite.”
Burton Fire District Lieutenant Joseph Peluso graduated FOA22-01. He highlights the invaluable information that FOAprovides.
“This was an incredible experience and I hope that this program thrives so that more people can have the experience that I did. It teaches you the real-world application of being a fire officer that isn’t taught in your traditional IFSAC fire officer classes."
Many of the departments represented by FOAalumni include:
• Greenville City Fire Department
• Columbia Fire Department
• Lexington County Fire Service
• Clemson University Fire & EMS
• Irmo Fire District
• Bluffton Township Fire District
• City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department
• North Charleston Fire Department
• Horry County Fire-Rescue
• McConnells Volunteer Fire Department
• Lugoff Fire Department
• Bennettsville Fire Department
• Kershaw County Fire-Rescue
We are looking forward to the upcoming class of Fire Officer Academy: The Company Officer. It is important to note that the selection process is highly competitive. Be sure to proofread your application before submitting. Applications closeJune 30, 2025.
Springtown Fire Displaces Family
ASpringtown family was displaced following a fire that destroyed theirhome on May 9, 2025 at 2223 hours. The fire occurred on Augusta Highway (SC Hwy. 61). Afamily memberadvised she was awakened by smoke and found the home on fire. She was able to alert the two otherfamily members and all three escaped the burning structure. Engine 7 arrived to find the single-story residential dwelling approximately 70-percent involved. Firefighters deployed two 1-3/4 inch handlines and one 2-1/2 inch handline to control the fire. Crews worked for approximately 30 minutes to gain control of the fire, but were on the scene performing overhaul forfive hours. Watersupply was conducted with a tendershuttle. One occupant was treated at the scene forsmoke inhalation, then transported to Colleton Medical Centerby Fire-Rescue Medic 26. Two firefighters were also injured while battling the blaze and were transported to Colleton Medical Centerby Fire-Rescue ambulances. Both were treated and laterreleased. The fire appeared to have started in the kitchen and spread to the attic. The cause was underinvestigation. The Red Cross assisted the family.
- Courtesy of Colleton County FR
Despite Burning Ban, OutdoorFire Spreads
Despite a state-wide burning ban, an outdoorfire at a residence in the 100 block of Emerald Street quickly spread to a metal storage building, carport and approximately one acre of woods on March 26, 2025, at 1313 hours. The fire destroyed two vehicles underthe carport. Engine 19 deployed two handlines to the fire and request-
ed a plow from the Forestry Commission. Crews kept the fire from reaching the residence on the property. Units were on the scene for 90 minutes. Sheriff’s Deputies blocked Emerald Street.
- Courtesy of Colleton County FR
TrailerFire in Surfside Beach
At 1452 hours on April 11, 2025, Horry County Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported structure fire incident on the 1000 block of Dick Pond Road in Surfside Beach. Awork trailerwas destroyed by fire, with damage to a nearby fence and melted siding on a nearby residence. One person was evaluated forinjuries on scene but signed a medical transport waiver. Surfside Beach Fire Department assisted. - Courtesy of Horry County FR
Residential Fire in Kershaw Co.
On January 4, 2025, Kershaw County Fire Service (KCFS) was dispatched to a residential fire in the 700 block of Ivy Bush Trail in Camden, SC. KCFS Chief Matthew Bullard was first on scene to find a single-story residence well involved. Crews from both Kershaw County and Camden Fire arrived on scene to make a quick knock on the fire. (An aside – Ed.): FirefighterHunter Ruegsegger, a VolunteerFirefighterwith Kershaw County and CareerFirefighterwith Camden Fire Department is the son of Fire Chief Matthew Bullard. Chief Bullard had command of the incident and his son Hunterresponded in an apparatus to help extinguish the fire. Chief Bullard is proud of the firefighterthat Hunter is becoming. - Submitted by Fire Chief Matthew Bullard
Vehicle Fire on I-85
Shortly afternoon on April 8, 2025, Duncan and Startex fire units responded to reports of a vehicle fire on Interstate 85, just before exit 63. Duncan Engine 13 arrived and confirmed a working vehicle fire. Crews quickly extinguished the fire, and the interstate was temporarily shut down during operations.
- Submitted by Josh Hannigan
Fatality at High Speed MVA
An adult male was fatally injured in a single-vehicle high speed MVAon Sidneys Road at Buckeye Lane on April 11, 2025 at 0333 hours. The northbound pickup left the roadway in a curve, struck a culvert, then a large tree. The impact caused heavy damage to the truck, which overturned on Sidneys Road. The male driverwas the only occupant and was wearing a seatbelt, but suffered multiple traumatic injuries. ASheriff’s deputy was in the area and arrived within minutes of the 911 call. Heavy rains had just passed through the area and he was unable to reach the driver. Fire Rescue units arrived about 10 minutes laterfinding the road blocked. They were able to determine the driverwas deceased and contacted the Coroner’s Office who responded. Firefighter-Paramedics stabilized the truck, then used Holmatro Pentheon Rescue Tools to remove the roof and extricate the driver. The SC Highway Patrol was investigating the accident. - Courtesy of Colleton County FR
Bluffton Twp. Responds to Multi-Vehicle MVA
Bluffton Township Fire District responded to a significant collision involving six vehicles at the intersection of Highway 278 (Fording Island Road) and Whiteoaks Circle/Rose Hill Way shortly after 1230 hours on May 19, 2025. Initial reports of multiple vehicles and possible entrapment prompted responding fire crews to request additional resources while en route. Upon arrival, firefighters found a complex scene involving multiple heavily damaged vehicles blocking the intersection and several lanes of travel. Fire district personnel provided medical treatment to three individuals before transferring theircare to Beaufort County EMS. Otherdeclined treatment ordid not require medical attention. Firefighters worked quickly to free those who were trapped and remained on scene forseveral hours. “This was a difficult incident foreveryone involved,” said Deputy Chief Adam Corn, who oversaw operations. “Ourcrews, along with ourpartners in EMS and law enforcement, responded with care, coordination, and professionalism undervery difficult circumstances.” Multiple agencies responded.
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
Weathera Factorin Burton 2-CarMVA
Just after0700 hours on May 12, 2025, during heavy rains, the Burton Fire District, Beaufort County EMS and Sheriff’s Office, and South Carolina Highway Patrol, responded to a vehicle collision at Joe FrazierRoad and Burton Wells Road in Burton. Emergency crews arrived to find a two-vehicle MVAbetween a pickup and an SUV, with the female driverof the SUVtrapped. Beaufort County EMS paramedics stabilized the driverwhile firefighters worked to free her. The driverwas transported with potentially serious injuries. So farthis year, the Burton Fire District has responded to over75 vehicle collisions, 57 percent of those collisions resulted in injuries, and trapped occupants were rescued in five of those collisions.
- Submitted by Burton FD
Training Brings Out the Best
Engine Company Operations with On Scene Training brought out the best in ourCentral Berkeley Fire and EMS family. Long hours, soaked gear, and tired muscles – but every moment was a step toward being better, fasterand strongerforthe people we serve. Training like this isn’t easy, but it builds more than skill – it builds trust, courage, and unshakable bonds. We’re proud of ourteam and proud of ourpurpose. - Courtesy of Central Berkeley Fire & EMS
The Latest in Search Techniques forIrmo FD
All companies recently participated in Irmo Fire District’s Search University 2025 training. The training included searching with the most updated search tactics used on today’s fireground. Those search tactics included: split search, oriented search and VES. All personnel were trained on how to complete the different search methods then completed real-life scenarios utilizing those search methods. Irmo Fire thanks Lexington County Fire Service forproviding coverage while all IFD companies were conducting the training.
- Submitted by Irmo FD
Beaufort/Port Royal Pump Practice
Shift 1 getting afterpump training on April 5, 2025.
- Courtesy of Beaufort/Port Royal FD
Bluffton Township Fire Announces Promotion of New Battalion Chief
The Bluffton Township Fire District is pleased to announce the promotion of Lieutenant Giovanni Scianna to Battalion Chief of Shift 2. Chief Scianna has been a dedicated member of the Fire District since March 2008 on Shift 3.
Over the years, Chief Scianna has earned his Nationally Registered Paramedic (NREMT-P) certification in 2009 and has contributed significantly to the Fire District’s mission through his involvement in specialized response teams. As a member of South Carolina Regional Response Team 4, he deployed in 2014 to assist with emergency operations during the severe ice storms that impacted the Upstate area. Additionally, he has served as a member of the Fire District’s Wildland Team.
Known as ‘Gio’to his colleagues, Chief Scianna has also been an integral part of the Bluffton Fire Rescue Running Team, and an eighttime Siller Cup Champion in the Tunnel to Towers Foundation 5K. Beyond his operational roles, Chief Scianna has played a key role in shaping the Fire District’s culture of excellence and firefighter wellbeing. He has served on the Awards Committee and was instrumental in establishing the Fire District’s Wellness Committee, reflecting his dedication to firefighter health and safety. Additionally, he currently oversees the department’s hydrant maintenance program.
Chief Scianna steps into the role previously held by Battalion Chief Derek Franks, who retired in January after more than 25 years of service.
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
Understanding the “Why” Behind Mental Health in the Fire Service as NFFFPartners with Darley forthe 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition
The National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), in partnership with W.S. Darley & Company, is proud to announce the launch of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest. This initiative challenges firefighters nationwide to explore the critical yet often overlooked mental health issues within their ranks.
The competition seeks to uncover the deeper reasons behind firefighters’ persistent mental health challenges, beyond the daily high-stakes stress of their lifesaving roles. “Understanding the ‘why’behind the mental health crisis is crucial,” said Garry Briese, a member of the Darley Board of Directors. “This competition provides a unique platform for firefighters to voice their experiences and insights.”
With a focus on introspection and analysis, participants are encouraged to examine various factors contributing to mental health issues, including job stress, firehouse culture, and broader societal impacts that uniquely affect firefighters.
How to Participate:
• Eligibility: Open to active and retired firefighters, both career and volunteer.
• Essay Requirements: Submit a three-tofour-page essay in PDF format, using 12-point Times New Roman font, double-spaced.
• Submission Period: March 24 - June 2.
“We often hear firefighters say, ‘I’m OK,’masking the true emotional toll of their duties,” said Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the NFFF. “This competition is a call to action for firefighters to express themselves openly.”
Submissions will be peer-reviewed by a panel of fire service and mental health experts, ensuring a comprehensive evaluation of the insights presented. For more details on the competition and submission guidelines, please visit https://darley.com/essay-contest.
Bluffton Twp Promotes SeniorFFVasont Millerto Lt.
The Bluffton Township Fire District proudly announced the promotion of Senior Firefighter Vasont Miller to the rank of Lieutenant. He was officially pinned during the Fire Commission Board meeting held on April 15, 2025, joined by family, fellow firefighters, and District leadership.
Lieutenant Miller is an ex-US Navy man and served honorably for five years. His time in the military instilled in him a deep sense of discipline, leadership, and attention to detail – qualities that have guided his success in the fire service.
After military service, Miller earned an Associate in Arts with an English emphasis from Harold Washington College, graduating with High Honors, and a Bachelor of Arts in Environmental Studies from Northeastern Illinois University, graduating cum laude. Since joining Bluffton in 2015, Miller has been a valued member of the Wildland Team, served on the District’s Hiring Board, and recently became a certified Scott SCBATechnician. He credits much of his professional growth to the mentorship and leadership of the officers he has served under, noting, “Every company officer I’ve worked under has shaped my development. They’ve each shown me how to serve this community with integrity and uphold the high standards of this department.”
“Lieutenant Miller has shown unwavering dedication to the mission of the Bluffton Township Fire District,” said Interim Fire Chief Derek Church. “We are proud to recognize his accomplishments and confident.” - Submitted by Stephen Combs
FAMAFire Apparatus Design Symposium
The Fire Apparatus Manufacturers’Association (FAMA) will be held on Tuesday, October 21 through Friday, October 24, 2025 at the Rosen Centre, 9840 International Drive, Orlando, FL32819.
It’s an opportunity all fire chiefs, fleet managers and spec committees, to join FAMA’s 1st Annual Fire Apparatus Design Symposium! Afire apparatus is a huge investment for any fire department, and making sure it’s specified properly from the start is critical. Committees spend countless hours developing these specifications and have many questions. There appear to be many resources for getting answers to these questions, but often those answers are integrated into advertisements, and sales pitches from specific manufacturers. All too often, a committee ends up getting a specific opinion from one manufacturer, guiding them towards purchasing their product, instead of fact-based information on the technology, allowing them to make their own conclusions on which product to purchase.
FAMAis a non-profit organization and is recognized as the most comprehensive resource to the emergency vehicle industry. The association consists of apparatus manufacturers, as well as component manufacturers, and has existed for over 75 years. As a Fire Chief or Apparatus Committee, who can better answer your questions than the people who actually engineer, test and produce the products?
This symposium brings together the resources you need to guide you on safety, new technology, and apparatus design in general. By offering presentations delivered by competing vendor suppliers, you can be assured that the information will be fact-based on the technologies, and not a typical sales pitch..
The FAMAFire Apparatus Design Symposium has been strategically scheduled in a location that is easy to access from anywhere in North America, at a top-rate facility, with presentations from industry experts.
If your department wants to stay on top of apparatus tewchnology, and make connections with industry leaders, this is the one event you don’t want to miss!
Cat Saved on Robert Grisson Pkwy.
A-Shift crews are at it again saving lives! On May 19, 2025, Station 6 crews responded to an injured cat that crawled into the engine compartment of a bystander’s caron Robert Grissom Parkway. The crews responded quickly and worked togetherto get the cat out safely and got it the help it needed. Great job.
- Courtesy of Myrtle Beach FD
Retirement Ceremony for Battalion Chief Derek Franks
The Bluffton Township Fire District (BTFD) is honored to announce the retirement of Battalion Chief Derek Franks after 25 years of dedicated service. Battalion Chief Franks began his remarkable career with the Bluffton Township Fire District in August 1999 as a Firefighter. Over the years, his leadership and expertise earned him a series of well-deserved promotions: Rising through the ranks He became Battalion Chief in 2019.
In addition to his work with the Fire District, Chief Franks made significant contributions to regional and state emergency response efforts. He served as a Rescue Specialist on South Carolina Task Force One Urban Search and Rescue from March 2003 through 2022, and more. Chief Franks’leadership, expertise, and compassion have made a lasting impact on the Bluffton Township Fire District and the community it serves.
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
Duncan FD Hosts Training Burns
Kicking off 2025 strong, Duncan Fire Department hosted its first Automatic Aid and Departmental Quarterly Training Burns of the year. Both burns focused on getting back to the basics to ensure a solid foundation forfireground success. Automatic aid came from: Startex Fire District, TygerRiverFire Department, Holly Springs Fire and Rescue District. - Courtesy of Duncan FD
ALife of Service: Firefighter Richard A. Hulse
Born in Greenport (NY) in 1942, Richard was a memberof the Greenport Fire Department for32 years, holding the title of Chief. Upon retiring from the Greenport Highway Department, he and his wife of 62 years, Cherie, moved to Fort Lawn (SC) where he quickly joined the Fort Lawn Fire Department. Richard grew to be known as the man who would never forget 9/11, and was instrumental in securing an Ibeam from the towers, and having it made into a memorial called Soaring into Heaven. He also secured a retired fire truck from Greenport to be used as a display truck and 9/11 memorial. He worked tirelessly with Fort Lawn Fire Chief David Dutton along with Abigail Rebecca and many others to secure funding, for the new firehouse located on Pleasant Avenue in Fort Lawn, which is now named and dedicated as the Richard A. Hulse Headquarters Station.
- Submitted by David and Stacy Averette
Workout Tribute forFallen FF
Members from the Irmo Fire District were honored to join alongside neighboring agencies and the community fora tribute workout honoring fallen firefighterJames Michael Muller. The event, “Hero WOD: Muller,” was created and hosted by CrossFit Soda City.
