West Florence Fire-Rescue

At approximately 6:10 a.m., Engine 221 was dispatched to Hoffmeyer Road following reports of a motor vehicle collision.

Upon arrival, crews located a single-vehicle accident in which the driver had left the roadway and struck a retaining wall. Firefighters assessed the scene and confirmed that no injuries were reported as a result of the collision.
The South Carolina Highway Patrol is investigating the cause of the crash.

Cleanup efforts for this collision are now complete, all lanes of Hoffmeyer Road are now open. 

🚒 Junior Firefighters Participate in Search and Rescue Training 🚒

Recently, members of the West Florence Fire-Rescue Junior Firefighter Program participated in hands-on search and rescue training designed to build the skills needed for a successful transition into the fire service.

During the training evolution, junior firefighters utilized self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and were tasked with conducting an interior search of a residential structure to locate a simulated victim. To create a realistic training environment, instructors filled the structure with artificial smoke generated by a fog machine, significantly reducing visibility and simulating the challenging conditions firefighters often encounter.

The training was monitored and recorded using a thermal imaging camera, allowing instructors to evaluate the students’ performance and provide valuable feedback. Throughout the exercise, participants worked together to conduct an organized search while emphasizing key firefighting principles, including teamwork, communication, accountability, and staying together as a crew.

These training evolutions are critical in preparing our junior firefighters for future service and helping bridge the gap between the Junior Firefighter Program and becoming a certified firefighter at age 18.

We are proud of the dedication, professionalism, and hard work demonstrated by these young men and women as they continue their journey in the fire service. 🚒👨‍🚒👩‍🚒

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

At approximately 5:20 p.m., Engine 211 responded to Cottonwood Drive after receiving a request for assistance involving a trapped dog underneath a storage building.

The caller contacted the fire station after being unable to safely remove the dog from beneath the structure. Upon arrival, firefighters assessed the situation and began carefully removing sections of the building’s underpinning to create a safe path for the K-9 to escape.

Crews were able to successfully free the dog without injury. After confirming the dog was not in distress, firefighters cleared the scene with out incident.

At approximately 10:35 PM, Engine 211 was dispatched to the intersection of US Highway 76 West and Bancroft Road following reports of a vehicle versus pedestrian collision.

Units arrived on scene and located one pedestrian suffering from serious injuries after being struck by a vehicle. Personnel from Florence County Emergency Medical Services arrived shortly thereafter and assumed patient care before transporting the patient to an area hospital for further treatment.

The Florence County Sheriff’s Office also responded to the scene due to reports of disorderly individuals in the area. Firefighters assisted with traffic control and scene safety operations while emergency personnel worked on scene.

The South Carolina Highway Patrol responded and is investigating the cause of the collision.

Tonight, members of West Florence Fire Rescue participated in their weekly training session, focusing on the deployment and repacking of the front jump line.

The front jump line is a smaller-diameter hose designed for rapid deployment at exterior fires, including vehicle fires, dumpster fires, and other incidents where a shorter, more maneuverable handline is the most effective tool.

During the training, firefighters practiced both the rapid deployment of the hose and the proper techniques for repacking it in accordance with fire academy standards. Regular training such as this ensures crews remain proficient and ready to respond efficiently to a wide range of emergency incidents.

During the training period, West Florence firefighters also responded to four calls for service, including one fire alarm activation and three reported motor vehicle collisions.

At approximately 5:50 PM, Engine 221 and Rescue 213 were dispatched to the intersection of Hoffmeyer Road and Dunbarton Drive in reference to a motor vehicle collision.

Units arrived on scene to find a two-vehicle collision involving two occupants who required evaluation and treatment by Florence County Emergency Medical Services. Firefighters assisted EMS personnel with patient care, provided traffic control, and remained on scene to assist with roadway cleanup until the arrival of the South Carolina Highway Patrol, which is conducting the investigation into the collision.

As a result of the collision, both eastbound lanes of Hoffmeyer Road at the intersection were blocked. Motorists should expect continued delays until debris is cleared and the disabled vehicles are removed from the roadway.

Tonight, members of West Florence Fire-Rescue conducted training on cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and the proper use of an Automated External Defibrillator (AED).

West Florence Fire-Rescue responds to hundreds of medical emergencies each year in support of Florence County Emergency Medical Services. Personnel also frequently encounter injured individuals at motor vehicle collisions and during fire suppression operations.

To ensure the highest level of readiness, West Florence Fire-Rescue places a strong emphasis on ongoing medical training for all members, both career and volunteer. The department includes personnel with a range of medical certifications, including entry-level First Responder, Emergency Medical Responder (EMR), Emergency Medical Technician (EMT), and Paramedic.

Entry-level medical training is required for all firefighters, ensuring that every member is prepared to provide critical care during emergency situations.

West Florence Fire-Rescue is always seeking dedicated individuals to join our team. If you are interested in serving your community and making a difference, we encourage you to reach out and learn more about volunteer and career opportunities.

At approximately 2:30 p.m., Engine 241 was dispatched to the 1000 block of Wessex Drive following reports of a dumpster fire.

Upon arrival, crews found a commercial dumpster fully involved. Firefighters quickly deployed a handline and brought the fire under control. A nearby construction crew assisted operations by utilizing a skid steer to break apart debris inside the dumpster, allowing firefighters to fully extinguish remaining hot spots.

No additional property damage was reported, aside from minor heat damage to a nearby portable restroom.

At approximately 11:25 a.m., Engine 221 and Brush 225 were dispatched to the 2200 block of West Jody Road in response to a report of an outside fire threatening an apartment complex.

Upon arrival, crews encountered a small but rapidly spreading fire that posed an immediate threat to a nearby apartment building. Firefighters quickly deployed hose lines, stopping the forward progress of the fire and bringing it under control.

The incident resulted in damage to a fence separating the apartment complex from a nearby construction site, as well as minor heat damage to one of the apartment buildings. Crews utilized a thermal imaging camera to ensure there was no extension of fire into the structure.

The cause of the fire remains under investigation. There were no reported injuries, and no residents were displaced. All units have cleared the scene.

Safety Message:
A statewide outdoor burn ban remains in effect, and current weather conditions—including dry fuels, low humidity, and gusty winds—are creating an environment where fires can spread rapidly. Residents are strongly urged to comply with the burn ban and avoid any outdoor burning. Even small fires can quickly get out of control under these conditions, putting lives and property at risk.