West Florence Fire-Rescue

At approximately 5:30 p.m., Engine 211 and Rescue 213 were dispatched to the 157-mile marker of Interstate 95 for the report of a single-vehicle rollover collision.

Upon arrival, crews found that the vehicle had left the roadway, overturned, and came to rest with the driver trapped inside. Firefighters immediately began extrication operations and successfully freed the occupant from the vehicle.

Once the driver was extricated, personnel from Florence County Emergency Medical Services assumed patient care and transported the individual to a local hospital with serious injuries.

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

🚒 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. 🚒👨‍🚒👩‍🚒

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.