Save the dates for these upcoming Association events

October 13, 2023

We’re in the final quarter of 2023, and we’re already looking forward to what 2024 has to offer. We have several trainings and events scheduled, and we hope to see you there.

Officer Academy 24-01 applications are due October 31

Fresh off OA 23-02, applications are open for the Fire Officer Academy: The Company Officer, March 3-8, 2024. We expect another highly competitive selection process; if you are applying, be sure to have a peer or friend review your application, resume, and cover letter. The deadline to apply is October 31, 2023, at 11:59 p.m. and will not be extended.

Don’t wait to submit your application! Get a preview of what the in-person portion of the program is like with pictures from OA 23-02 earlier this month.

Quarterly Training and Business Meeting is on October 25

Recruitment and retention are hot topics in the fire service, and the upcoming switch from NFIRS to NERIS is sure to be a big change. We’re excited to welcome to Quarterly recruitment and retention expert Dr. Candice McDonald, Deputy CEO of the National Volunteer Fire Council; Rebecca Harned, data advisor for the U.S. Fire Administration and Chief Programs Officer for the International Association of Fire Chiefs; and Chief Tom Jenkins, senior advisor/research manager for the NERIS project.

Quarterly offers something for everyone. We hope to see you at Trident Tech in Charleston on October 25, 2023, at 10 a.m. for Quarterly Training. Lunch is on us; just let us know you’re coming.

Fire Service Improvement Conference is January 18-21, 2024 in Columbia

Our hands-on-training conference is back with a few favorites and a couple new highly requested courses, too. All class times are 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Class size is limited and there will be no waiting list. Engine and Truck filled up in record time; save your spot sooner rather than later!

Thursday, January 18, 2024—Saturday, January 20, 2024

• SOLD OUT: Hand in Hand Engine School, led by Jonah Smith
• SOLD OUT: Truck School, led by Blake Cartee
• Effective Command Process: Practical Incident Command, led by Nicholas Ray

Thursday, January 18, 2024—Friday, January 19, 2024

• Hook Up and Stretch: High-Rise and Mid-Rise Operations, led by Micah Rains
• Grain Bin Rescue, led by Brian Roberson
• Basic Shoring for the Initial Engine Company, led by Chad Beam

Saturday, January 20, 2024—Sunday, January 21, 2024

• Winning on the Fireground: Limited Staffing, led by Michael Dozier
• Make the Grab: Creating Aggressive Search Culture, led by Micah Rains
• National FARMEDIC, led by David Dennison
• School Bus Extrication

Saturday, January 20

• Lithium Ion Battery Fires Response, led by Webster Marshal

Affordability is important to us; the entire weekend is just $50, regardless of how many classes you take. Mix and match at your convenience.

The DoubleTree by Hilton at 2100 Bush River Road is the host hotel for the weekend. Room reservations should be made before December 19, 2023. Book your stay and we'll see you there!

The Firefighter Memorial Service is February 3, 2024, in Irmo

The yearly Memorial Service honoring members we’ve lost is one of our most important responsibilities. It is a privilege and honor to create a space where the fire service and the families of those who have passed can come together to formally recognize the impact their loved one had on the South Carolina fire service. In a time of immeasurable grief, we hope that remembering those who have passed will help you find peace and comfort.

We are looking for escorts for families. Please email Colleen Quillen if you would like to be on the escort list.

The Firefighter Memorial Service is on February 3, 2024, at Riverland Hills Baptist Church in Irmo at 2 p.m. Please join us as we memorialize the legacy of these Association members.

We’re going to the State House on April 17, 2024 for Legislative Day

As a South Carolina firefighter, it is essential that your voice is heard by state lawmakers. Legislative Day is your opportunity to meet with representatives at the State House and discuss the issues that matter most to your community and department.

Your presence at Legislative Day shows your community that you are willing, ready, and able to take an active role in shaping the policies that impact how you operate. This is your opportunity to show your dedication to the fire service and your desire to make a difference.

Legislative Day is on April 17 on the State House grounds. We’ll share more information on escorts in the weeks leading up to the event.

Fire-Rescue is June 12-15, 2024 in Myrtle Beach

Go ahead and mark your calendar for Fire-Rescue, June 12-15, 2024. We had an incredible turnout for Fire-Rescue 2023, and we hope to see you and your families again in 2024.

Golfers, the Foundation Golf Tournament is on Wednesday, June 12 at Legends Golf Resort in Myrtle Beach. Get your teams ready! We’ve consistently seen an increase in teams and funds raised every year for the past few years; we are hopeful to continue that trend. Thank you for your support of the Foundation!

Thank you for what you do, and for allowing us to support you.