Duncan Engine 81 and Wellford Rescue 13 responded to a reported structure fire.
See story on page 8
7 Displaced, 2 Homes Uninhabitable
A lightning strike in northeast Richland County set off a fire that left three homes damaged.
See story on page 10
Serious Semi Crash on I-95
A northbound semi-truck left the roadway on Interstate 95 and struck several trees in the median.
See story on page 12
Swift Water Rescue Class
Responders traveled to Tennessee for the RTS Accelerated Swiftwater Rescue course.
See story on page 17
Bluffton Township Earns Fire Safe SC Designation
The Bluffton Township Fire District has been recognized as a Fire Safe South Carolina (FSSC) Community.
See story on page 29
Obituary
Bluffton Township’s
Donald E. Rooker
See story on page 30
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Neighbor Awakens to Fire Next Door
At approximately 0430 hours on May 26, 2025, the Goose Creek City Fire Alarm Office received reports of a residential structure fire on Berkshire Court. A neighbor was awakened by the sight of flames coming from the adjacent home and promptly called 911. A box alarm was immediately struck, dispatching all available Goose Creek City units, including Engine 1, Engine 3, Ladder 2, Rescue 1, Medic 1, and Battalion 1. Engine 1 arrived to find a single-story, single-family dwelling with heavy fire showing through the roof. Crews quickly stretched a hoseline and began fire suppression. Battalion 1 requested a working fire assignment. Mutual aid companies from Naval Weapons Station, Summerville Fire-Rescue, Pine Ridge, and North Charleston responded to assist. Firefighters initiated an aggressive attack, conducted searches and performed ventilation operations. No occupants were found inside the residence. The fire was brought under control within approximately 25 minutes. The cause of the fire was under investigation.
- Submitted by Matthew Marous
3 Displaced by Placid Way Fire
At 2024 hours on July 10, 2025, Horry County Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported residential structure fire on the 2000 block of Placid Way. A residence sustained fire damage in the attic area following an apparent lightning strike. There were no reported injuries. But three people were displaced.
- Courtesy of Horry County FR
North Augusta Responds on Mutual Aid
On June 24, 2025, North Augusta Public Safety responded to a call for mutual aid with Merriwether Fire Department involving a residential structure fire. We’re proud to work alongside our neighboring agencies to protect lives, and we’re grateful for the strong partnerships that make our region safer.
- Submitted by Ignacio Velasco
Overpass Collapses on Interstate 20
On June 14, 2025, the Graniteville Vaucluse Warrenville (GVW) and Sage Mill fire departments were dispatched to Interstate 20 at milemarker 13 for a reported MVA with a vehicle fire. While en route, dispatch advised that a tractor trailer was on fire. Sage Mill arrived to a fully involved tractor trailer that was underneath the Old Vaucluse Road bridge with flames impinging on the bridge. It was determined the vehicle on fire was carrying gasoline. Fire attack was initiated with a foam stream. Shortly after this, the eastbound Old Vaucluse Road overpass collapsed onto Interstate 20. The fire was extinguished using two handlines with about 75 gallons of foam (AFFF) and approximately 10,000 gallons of water. The fire was placed under control at 0503.
- Submitted by Cody Black
Duncan, Wellford Assist Tyger River
On June 23, 2025, just before 2000 hours, Duncan Engine 81 and Wellford Rescue 13 responded as automatic aid to Tyger River Fire Department, along with several other agencies, for a reported structure fire. Upon arrival of Engine 81, a working fire was declared. Crews operated for two hours before returning to service.
- Courtesy of Duncan FD
Burton Battles Lithium-ion Battery Fires
5 Displaced at Aynor Structure Fire
At 1759 hours on July 2, 2025, Horry County Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported residential structure fire on Isaac Gerald Road in Aynor. A residence sustained significant fire and smoke damage. Five displaced residents were offered assistance from American Red Cross of South Carolina.
- Submitted by Burton FD
Just before 1600 hours on July 14, 2025, Burton crews responded to a reported fire in a dumpster at the Beaufort County Convenience Center on Shanklin Road. Firefighters arrived and found smoke coming from the debris in the metal recycling drop off area. Firefighters were advised by Convenience Center employees that there was a possibility of LP gas tanks in the pile. As firefighters began to extinguish the fire and move debris, they located a large lithium battery that was burning and igniting nearby combustibles. Firefighters removed the battery, submerged it in water, and continued extinguishing the remaining fire. Moments later, fire crews noticed smoke coming from a nearby large roll-off dumpster and began extinguishment. Once again, firefighters located another large lithium battery that was burning within the pile. Firefighters removed the second battery, submerged it, and continued to extinguish the remaining fire. It took firefighters over an hour, and approximately 3000 gallons of water, to extinguish the fire. Due to the heat index of over 100 degrees and the environment firefighters were working in, assistance from the MCAS Fire and Emergency Services was requested. No injuries or additional damages occurred. The batteries were subsequently isolated and allowed to burn off.
- Courtesy of Horry County FR
7 Displaced, 2 Homes Uninhabitable
A lightning strike in northeast Richland County set off a fire that reached twoalarms on the evening of July 12, 2025, and left three homes damaged. Columbia Fire Department 3rd-Shift crews responded to the scene on Bradford Ridge Lane shortly after 1845 hours. Firefighters arrived to find one home with flames quickly spreading to the home next door. This prompted officers on scene to call for a second alarm dispatching more resources. There were no injuries but both homes were left uninhabitable and at least seven people were left displaced. A third home also suffered exposure damage due to the fire.
- Courtesy of Columbia FD
Ceiling Collapse in 2-Alarmer
Firefighters responded to a twoalarm fire on 48th Avenue North. A Mayday was called for a ceiling collapse, but all firefighters were saved. - Submitted by Dennis Sharpe
Little River House Fire
At 0829 hours on June 21, 2025, Horry County Fire Rescue was dispatched to a reported residential structure fire on Cascade Loop in Little River. The residence sustained heavy fire damage, mostly in the garage area. Two displaced residents were offered assistance from the American Red Cross of South Carolina. Horry County Police Department assisted. - Courtesy of Horry County FR
Serious Injury, Partial Ejection, Medevac in I-95 Semi Crash
At 0512 hours, on June 24, 2025, a northbound semi-truck left the roadway on Interstate 95 near the 60 milemarker and struck several trees in the median. The cab received heavy damage from the impact, but restraints in the trailer failed and the load of 50-pound bags of sugar were propelled forward crushing the cab from the rear. The driver was partially ejected through the windshield, but was trapped in the wreckage as the cab was crushed. An off-duty Fire-Rescue Lieutenant arrived minutes later and began treating the unconscious driver who was hanging out of the windshield. Firefighter-Paramedics worked over 30 minutes using two sets of
Holmatro Pentheon rescue tools, to extricate the man. One crew had to use ladders to reach the area of entrapment. The driver suffered severe, multiple injuries and was in critical condition. Crews treated his many injuries and administered lifesaving whole blood. A medical helicopter had been requested and the CARE Flight helicopter landed on I-95 just north of the accident. The patient was flown to the Trauma Center at HCA Trident Hospital in North Charleston. Traffic on I-95 backed up several miles and was detoured by law enforcement to Bells Highway.
- Courtesy of Colleton County FR
Myrtle Beach Structure Fire
Myrtle Beach Fire Department crews were on the scene of a residential structure fire at Maggie Parker Lane on June 29, 2025. All occupants were out of the structure and safe as crews continued to work at extinguishing the fire. - Courtesy of Myrtle Beach FD
Multiple Lightning Strikes Hammer Southern Beaufort County
The Bluffton Township Fire District responded to an unusually high number of emergency calls on, July 10, 2025, after strong thunderstorms brought frequent lightning and heavy rain to southern Beaufort County.
Incidents included structure fires, power outages, smoke inside homes, and small outdoor fires. In one case, a lightning strike on a gas line ignited a fire in the lower level of a home on Greenleaf Road in the Palmetto Bluff community. Thanks to the rapid response of firefighters, the fire was contained, and the home saved. Other affected areas included homes along Martingale West, Hartwell Road, Mainland Lakes Drive, Coventry Court, and Yonges Island Drive.
“We are incredibly grateful that no injuries occurred during these events,” said Deputy Chief of Operations Adam Corn. “It’s rare to see this many lightning-related incidents in such a short period. Our crews performed with incredible professionalism, and the support from our mutual aid partners was outstanding. We especially thank Hilton Head Island Fire Rescue and the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal FD for sending additional engines to assist during our peak call volume.” - Submitted by Stephen Combs
Lightning Strike Starts Johnsville House Fire
A Johnsville community home was heavily damaged by a fire on July 9, 2025 at 1758 hours. The homeowner in the 1400 block of Johnsville Road, called 911 advising his house was on fire with flames visible from the rear of the structure. Engine 7 arrived minutes later to heavy fire and smoke showing from the single-story wood frame structure. Crews deployed two handlines as the flames breached the ceiling and traveled through the attic. The occupant had already safely exited. He received burns to the arms in attempts to extinguish the fire prior to the arrival of Engine 7. The man was treated at the scene, but denied ambulance transport to the hospital.
The incident occurred during a severe thunderstorm. Crews worked for about 25 minutes to control the fire in near zero visibility due to rain. They were on the scene for three hours performing overhaul. The homeowner advised he was in the front of the home when it was struck by lightning. There was a brief power outage, but things seemed normal when the power was restored. A short time later he heard noises in the back of the house and discovered the flames. The home suffered substantial damage and the occupant was displaced. The Red Cross assisted the man.
- Courtesy of Colleton County FR
HazMat Training
Recently, Duncan Fire Department personnel focused their training efforts on hazmat incidents. Two of our members attended a specialized Ammonia Response Course at the Spartanburg EOC, gaining hands on experience with live agents alongside other members of the Spartanburg County Hazardous Materials Response Team. Meanwhile, personnel from Duncan, Wellford, and Startex stations participated in tabletop exercises that simulated real world hazmat scenarios, sharpening their decision making and response.
- Courtesy of Duncan FD
Rosenbauer America Announces Territory Expansion with C.W. Williams to
include South Carolina
Rosenbauer America, a leading manufacturer of fire apparatus and firefighting equipment, is pleased to announce the expansion of C.W. Williams and Companys authorized dealer territory to include the state of South Carolina.
C.W. Williams currently operates three service and office locations in North Carolina: Rocky Mount, Statesville, and Pisgah Forest. C.W. Williams also provides extensive mobile service capabilities today in North Carolina and South Carolina.
“We are incredibly excited to extend our partnership with C.W. Williams in South Carolina,” said Diego Salazar, Rosenbauer Director of Dealer Development. “The C.W. Williams team has consistently demonstrated an unparalleled commitment to their customers and to the Rosenbauer brand over the past two decades.”
“Our team at C.W. Williams is thrilled to bring the full line of Rosenbauer fire apparatus and support to the state of South Carolina”, said David Eatmon, Vice President of C.W. Williams. “We look forward to building strong relationships with fire departments across South Carolina and providing them with the same high level of fire apparatus sales, service and parts support that we’ve proudly delivered in North Carolina.
Contact C.W. Williams at (252)-977-3610; www.cwwilliams.com; info@cwwilliams.com
FAMA Fire 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, FL 32819.
It’s an opportunity all fire chiefs, fleet managers and spec committees, to join FAMA’s 1st Annual Fire Apparatus Design Symposium! 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.
FAMA is a non-profit organization and is recognized as the most comprehensive resource to the emergency vehicle industry. As a Fire Chief or Apparatus Committee, who can better answer your questions than the people who actually engineer, test and produce the products?
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..
If your department wants to stay on top of apparatus technology, and make connections with industry leaders, this is the one event you don’t want to miss!
Entrapment at Boundary Street Multi-vehicle MVA
On June 11, 2025, at approximately 0557 hours, the City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department Engine Company 1, Medic 1, and Battalion 1 were dispatched to an MVA with injuries on Boundary Street. While fire department units were en route, Beaufort County Dispatch informed crews of a multi-vehicle MVA with possible entrapment. With the report of entrapment, Engine Company 4 was requested to the scene. Medic 1 and Engine 1 arrived to find three vehicles with heavy damage and one occupant entrapped. Crews worked diligently for several minutes and performed a dash push in order to get the occupant out of the vehicle. Once freed, the patient was turned over to Beaufort County EMS. Boundary Street remained closed for several hours.
- Courtesy of City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal FD
Swift Water Rescue Class
Central Berkeley Fire and EMS hit the road as Chief Justin MilesMiller, Chief James Kemple, and Lieutenant Megan Golbus traveled to Tennessee for the RTS Accelerated Swiftwater Rescue course. Over four grueling days, these dedicated members pushed through long hours, intense rapids, slippery rocks and bruised — everything — all to sharpen their lifesaving skills. The Class 3 rapids were unlike anything they’d faced before, but they rose to the challenge. We’re proud to report that these members successfully completed the course. This was no easy feat, and these three can return home with heads held high — having conquered one of the toughest rescue courses out there. A huge thank you to the incredible instructors and the entire RTS team for their top-tier training, professionalism, and commitment to excellence. Your passion for rescue work truly made a difference.
- Courtesy of Central Berkeley Fire & EMS
South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
Womack Sworn in as President of SCSFA
Pierce Womack has over 20 years of realworld experience in emergency services, in 2004 he started his career at the Pickens County E-911 Communications Center answering 911 calls. Womack continued to further his career in emergency response by becoming a volunteer firefighter for the City of Easley in 2005, where he still serves today. While volunteering at the City of Easley Fire Department, Pierce was hired full-time by Liberty Fire Department in 2006 to pursue his passion in the fire service. The Vineyards Fire Department hired Pierce in 2009 as a Captain, his ability to quickly think tactics and his dedicated work ethic made him a perfect fit for this position. As Captain, Pierce submitted his application to attend the SC State Firefighters’ Association Leadership Class, he was accepted into the program and graduated in 2014. While Pierce filled his responsibilities as Captain at the Vineyards FD, he simultaneously took on the position of HazMat Coordinator/Planner through Pickens County Emergency
Management. In 2015, Pierce was selected as the Deputy Director of Pickens County Emergency Management, where he continued to serve Pickens County until he accepted his current position of Deputy Director for Greenville County Emergency Management in 2021.
Throughout Pierce’s career, Pierce has continued to exhibit passion and strive to expand his skills, abilities and knowledge in emergency response. He accepted additional responsibilities at the state level as a member of South Carolina Task Force One and the Palmetto Incident Support Team. These teams deploy in support of local first responders for large scale emergencies in and outside of South Carolina. Womack has been involved with South Carolina Firefighter Mobilization for many years, he was selected as the Region 1 Coordinator in 2020. His leadership and organization was paramount during disaster events including the Pinnacle Mountain Fire and devastating hurricanes.
As a certified communication technician and programmer, Pierce understands the importance of communication during a critical incident. Response begins with interoperable communication, he continues to polish his skillset and stay up to date on the newest communication technology. In the past several years, Pierce has served on the SC State Firefighters’ Association By-Laws Committee and also served as the Communications Committee Chair. Pierce has used his radio experience to work with local, state and Federal members of government to attempt to implement an improved funding bill to assist SC Emergency Response agencies with increased radio interoperability funding.
In 2023, Pierce was named 3rd Vice President for the SC State Firefighters’ Association. While Womack has accomplished many achievements professionally, he will quickly tell you his greatest overall accomplishment is his daughter, Maddie Kate.
South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association Fire-Rescue 2025 Held in Myrtle Beach
South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
Fire-Rescue 2025 Held in Myrtle Beach
South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
Fire-Rescue 2025 Held in Myrtle Beach
South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association
FireWire: Important Membership Reminder
The South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s Member Management System (MMS) is a critical tool for fire departments to maintain accurate and up-to-date records of their members in relation to the Association. Aside from the administrative tasks performed in the MMS required annually for departments to be members, roster management is absolutely critical in ensuring your firefighters receive the full extent of the program.”
A significant number of members are listed in the MMS as having fees unpaid. We strongly encourage fire chiefs and roster managers to take a moment to verify that all members of your department who are eligible for benefits have their membership fees marked as paid and up to date in the database.
These benefits are critical, and no one wants a firefighter to be ineligible for a benefit—especially in the tragic event of a firefighter death—simply because of inaccurate roster information. Take care of your people by making sure they will receive the benefits they deserve.
Please act now to ensure your members are covered. A few minutes of verification today can make all the difference tomorrow.
Individuals can confirm their membership status by logging into the MMS and navigating to the “My Departments” tab. If the “Pays Dues” column says “NO,” please talk to your fire chief.
FireWire: Spotlighting our South Carolina Fire-Rescue Speakers: Michael Dozier
With our 120th annual Fire-Rescue Conference recently coming to a close, we’re taking a moment to highlight some of our home-grown South Carolina Fire-Rescue speakers. Today, we’re proud to introduce Michael Dozier, a devoted fire service professional from Loris, South Carolina.
Battalion Chief Michael Dozier serves with Horry County Fire Rescue and is known for his instruction on firehouse culture and company officer leadership. He has taught at four FireRescue South Carolina conferences, and he has thoroughly enjoyed each one.
“It’s probably my favorite conference to go speak at,” said Chief Dozier.
Furthermore, he values the accessibility of Fire-Rescue Conferences. He notes that it is free of charge and easy to attend, allowing more people to benefit from his classes.
“It just essentially being a drop-in- I think it’s just such a cool concept compared to pretty much any other conference out there.”
He hopes that his classes allow firefighters to leave with valuable information that they can apply to their own departments.
“I hope they could take something out of each one of my classes, go apply it to their own situation and see it get a little better, and put some stuff back in their control to, you know, to build their own culture up,” said Chief Dozier.
“I think some of the concepts that I talk about are applicable, you know, in any kind of situation. I just want them to be able to take it back and actually apply it.”
We are very grateful to have leaders like Michael Dozier to share his knowledge with our fire service community. We look forward to welcoming him back to future Fire-Rescue Conferences.
FireWire: Request an FOA Mentor
The Selection Committee for the Fire Officer Academy: The Company Officer met in July to evaluate the applications and choose the 30 folks to move forward to the second phase of the process. While the in-person portion of the program tends to steal the spotlight, it’s just one vital piece of a much larger puzzle. The lessons built into the program begin at the application process.
It’s not easy to make it into the FOA. In such a competitive environment, the smallest details can make the biggest difference.
We’re excited to offer the FOA Mentor Program for those interested in applying and want to lean on the experience of someone who has been through the process. They remember what it felt like to stare at a blank application or face the stress of the online assessments. More importantly, they know what it takes to succeed.
Leadership development isn’t a solo journey; it’s built on the foundation of community and shared knowledge. By connecting new applicants with seasoned alumni, the program helps ensure that every candidate has the tools and support to bring their best self forward.
Request an FOA Mentor on the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s website.
Applications for FOA 26-01, March 8-13, 2026, open October 1.
Banquet & Transfer of Command Ceremony
North Myrtle Beach Dedicates New Heavy Rescue
The City of North Myrtle Beach held a dedication and push-in ceremony for Rescue 1, the City’s new heavy rescue apparatus, on June 13, 2025 at Fire Station 1. This state-ofthe-art vehicle enhances North Myrtle Beach Fire Department’s ability to respond to complex and technical emergencies, including vehicle extrications, structure support and a variety of rescue scenarios. Following the ceremony, Rescue 1 was available for public viewing. Rescue 1 was officially placed in service with full-time staffing on June 15, 2025.
“Rescue 1 represents a major step forward for our department,” said Fire Chief Billy Floyd. “It is built to handle some of the toughest calls we face, and it gives our firefighters the tools they need to protect the community more effectively. We are excited to put it into service and proud to share it with the public.”
- Fire News photos by Tim Edwards
Burton Promotes 2 to Lieutenants
On June 27, 2025, at Burton Fire District Station 84, in front of family, friends, and coworkers, the Burton Fire District promoted two firefighters to the rank of Lieutenant. After being sworn in by Burton Fire Chief Harry Rountree, the families of both the newly promoted officers got to pin on their new ranks.
Newly promoted Lieutenant Basye Hibbett, an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), has been with the Burton Fire District since 2016. In 2021, Lt. Hibbett was part of an emergency crew that successfully
revived a person who was in cardiac arrest.
Newly promoted Lieutenant Morgan Clifton, a Paramedic, was selected as Shift II’s 2023 Firefighter of the Year.
“I have the honor of hiring these folks and promoting them as they grow within this profession and progress in their careers,” stated Burton Fire Chief Harry Rountree. “No matter how many times I get to do this it’s just as happy and rewarding each time.”
- Submitted by Burton FD
2nd Session of Youth Empowerment Academy
The second session of Columbia Richmond’s Youth Empowerment Academy started in July. Teens taking part toured parts of headquarters as well as the County’s 911 center.
- Courtesy of Columbia Richland FD
South Carolina Firefighters Gather For Largest In-State Training
Over 5,000 South Carolina firefighters gathered in Myrtle Beach last week for the largest in-state training during the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association’s annual Fire-Rescue Conference.
The flagship event of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association, Fire-Rescue Conference has been a staple in the fire service for 120 years. Nearly 50 courses covering a wide range of topics were instructed over the 4-day training conference.
President Pierce Womack of the Easley Fire Department and Director of Greenville County Emergency Management was sworn in as the 79th President of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association at the Transfer of Command on Saturday, June 14. Voting Members elected City of Beaufort/Town of Port Royal Fire Department Deputy Chief Ross Vezin as 4th Vice President.
“It’s truly an honor and a privilege to stand before you today as the incoming President of the South Carolina State Firefighters’ Association,” President Womack remarked. “I am both humbled and excited to take on this role and serve alongside such an outstanding group of professionals who continue to uphold the proud traditions of this wonderful organization.”
In his speech, President Womack thanked the membership, Executive Committee, and Fire-Rescue speakers and exhibitors.
“As I step into this role, I am filled with a sense of purpose and pride. The Association represents not just firefighters, it represents integrity, service, and brotherhood. I am excited to help strengthen those values to listen, to lead, and to keep building on the incredible foundation laid by those before me,” President Womack stated.
Before concluding Fire-Rescue, President Womack congratulated the 2025 award winners.
MERITORIOUS ACTION AWARD RECIPIENTS:
Anderson City Fire Department – John Poore, Jamie King, Dallas Mahaffey, Hunter Hartline, Stephen Eller, Jeremy Duncan. Jasper County – Danny Hawley, Aaron Saxon, Allen Perry, Mathew Richardson, Dallyn Marsh, Brendan Wilkerson, Tyler Smith, Zachary Dewar.
Townville Fire Department – Eddie Moriarty, Scott Gosnell, Doug Janney
Mullins Fire Department & Marion Rural Fire Department –Christopher Moore, Zach Reed, Bill Wallace.
Horry County Fire Department – Marek Kruszewski.
Myrtle Beach Fire Department – Wyat Lloyd.
City of Greer Fire Department – Charlie Kanel, Cameron Nicholson, Enrique Vazquez.
Greenwood City Fire Department – Blake Shultze, JD Ehney, Heath Phillips, Aaron Walker.
Clarendon County Fire Rescue & Williamsburg County Fire Department – Brian Gamble, Calvin Linke, Sidney Welch, Lee Worrell, Aaron Lowder, Melvin Worrell, Jason Dennis.
City of Goose Creek FD Breaks Ground on Station
North Augusta Showcases New Apparatus
The City of Goose Creek Fire Department proudly broke ground on a brand-new fire station that will expand emergency services and improve response times for residents across the growing community. City and state officials, fire department personnel, and community members gathered at 1401 2nd Avenue on June 2, 2025, to celebrate the beginning of construction on the much-anticipated facility. The new station — Carnes Crossroads Station 4 — will feature modern living quarters, updated apparatus bays, and environmentally sustainable design elements. Once completed, the station will serve as a vital hub for emergency operations in the Carnes Crossroads area. The project, expected to be completed by Fall of 2026, was made possible through state and local funding and reflects the city’s commitment to public safety and infrastructure improvements.
Spartan Fire and Emergency Apparatus showcased North Augusta Public Safety’s newest pride and powerhouse — Truck 8 — at the 2025 Fire Rescue Conference in Myrtle Beach. It’s an honor to see our latest apparatus featured alongside the best in the fire service industry. This state-of-the-art vehicle represents a significant step forward in our mission to protect and serve the North Augusta community, and we look forward to putting it into service.
- Submitted by Matthew Marous
- Submitted by Ignacio Velasco
BTFD, LMMN Save Stranded Dolphin
On July 12, 2025, Bluffton Township Fire District (BTFD), the Lowcountry Marine Mammal Network (LMMN), and local Bluffton residents rescued a seven-foot, 10inch dolphin named Lucky from the shallow tidal lagoon inside the Hampton Lake community. LMMN received a call at 1215 hours and deployed a team, once on scene they determined they would need additional help and contacted BTFD at 1524 for support. Rescue 335 responded and deployed firefighters specially trained in technical water rescue as part of South Carolina Regional Response Team 4. Crews guided the dolphin onto a specially designed marine rescue tarp. The team carried Lucky 75 yards through shallow water and up a steep embankment which is not an easy task as Lucky weighs between 400500 pounds. The dolphin was released into deeper water in the river just before 1800. LMMN is federally authorized to respond to marine mammals in South Carolina by NMFS and the Marine Mammal Health and Stranding and Response Program. It is otherwise illegal to handle marine mammals without authorization.
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
Scan code to view video.
Bluffton Township Earns 6th Consecutive Fire Safe SC Designation
The Bluffton Township Fire District has once again been recognized as a Fire Safe South Carolina (FSSC) Community, marking its sixth consecutive year earning the designation. The district received its official certificate during a special recognition ceremony held, June 13, 2025, at the 2025 South Carolina Fire Rescue Conference in Myrtle Beach. Bluffton was among 208 fire departments statewide honored for their leadership in fire prevention and community risk reduction.
The Fire Safe SC designation highlights fire departments that excel in reducing fire-related injuries and fatalities through education, data reporting, and community engagement.
Bluffton Township Fire District serves the Town of Bluffton and the unincorporated areas of Southern Beaufort County, excluding the Town of Hilton Head Island and Daufuskie Island. The district protects approximately 76,000 residents and thousands of annual visitors.
Led by Battalion Chief Terry Sheriff, the District’s Community Risk Reduction (CRR) Division develops and delivers proactive safety programs aligned with Fire Safe SC and Vision 20/20 national strategies. The CRR Division includes Public Information Officer Stephen Combs and CRR Educators Haley Frazier and Sam Dulla, who collectively support the district’s mission: “To efficiently protect the lives and property of our community in a kind and professional manner.”
“This recognition reflects years of dedication from our team and strong partnerships throughout the community,” said Battalion Chief Sheriff. “Being a Fire Safe SC Community means we don’t wait for emergencies to happen — we work to prevent them.”
A key component of the Fire Safe SC program is home fire safety — specifically the availability and maintenance of smoke alarms, carbon monoxide (CO) alarms, fire extinguishers, and escape planning. The District’s Smoke Alarm Program is offered free of charge to residents and focuses on ensuring every household is properly protected.
“Recognition is an honor — but the real impact is in the lives we make safer every day,” added Sheriff. “We’re proud to be part of a statewide movement helping communities like ours thrive.”
- Submitted by Stephen Combs
Bluffton Township’s Donald E. Rooker
The Bluffton Township Fire District is saddened to announce the passing of retired Fire Captain Donald E. (‘Homie’) Rooker, who served the Bluffton community with distinction for 27 years. Captain Rooker passed away peacefully at his home in Fairplay, South Carolina, on June 29, 2025, after a long illness. He was 65 years old.
Born on July 26, 1959, in New Port, North Carolina, Captain Rooker began his service to others in the US Army, where he served for eight years and became a Drill Sergeant. Following his military service, he joined the Bluffton Fire District as a volunteer in 1987 and was hired full-time on August 20, 1990. He rose through the ranks to become a Fire Captain, serving in key roles including line Firefighter at Station 34 and Quartermaster before retiring in October 2014 under then-Fire Chief John Thompson.
Captain Rooker was known for his calm presence, quiet leadership, and steadfast commitment to his team and community. His influence continues to be felt in the department and in the lives of those who served alongside him.
Outside the fire service, Donald was devoted to his family, loved fishing for stripers, and always enjoyed a good cup of coffee. His dog, Chance, was a faithful companion until his passing from cancer.
He is survived by his wife, Carol Lamb Rooker, his children, stepchildren, grandchildren, great-grandchild, and many loved ones who cherished his strength and kindness. He was predeceased by his first wife, Mary Lavern Rooker. - Submitted by Stephen Combs
Never Too Hot to Help
Recently, in between emergency calls, Horry County Fire Rescue Station 8 (Juniper Bay) crews doubled back to an area residence they’ve frequented for medical calls. The resident — a disabled military veteran — had a lawn that needed some attention, so these crews came back and did just that for him. Great job, Capt. Daugherty, Firefighter/Paramedic Whittington, and Firefighter/EMTs Cirrincione, Noreck and Proctor, putting in work for our residents and guests every shift! - Courtesy of Horry County FR
Natural Gas Line Cut
-
Units responded to Ashewood Commons Drive on July 14, 2025, in the afternoon after reports came in of an active leak. Firefighters were quickly able to contain the scene until repairs could be made by utility crews.
