North Myrtle Beach Fire Rescue Department set for Expansion
Staff Growth and New Equipment on the Horizon
North Myrtle Beach, S.C. – The local Fire Rescue Department is preparing for a significant transition with the upcoming addition of new staff members and innovative equipment. The changes are slated to occur over the next few years, with Fire Chief Billy Floyd making the exciting announcement recently.
Increasing Ranks With More Firefighters
Floyd stated that he anticipates the department size to double within the next four to five years. The increase in manpower is said to come from federal grants applied for by the department to speed up hiring processes. The application window for firefighters within the department has just closed leading to the expectation of new recruits soon. Adding to the appeal is the gradual increase in starting salary for the department rescue teams, leading to a total growth of 29% over the past three years.
Upgrade with New Rescue Vehicle and Gear
The heavy rescue vehicle, a noteworthy part of the new equipment, is estimated to cost roughly $2 million including the unmatched range of sophisticated instruments it stores. Created around two weeks ago, the construction of the vehicle is projected to be complete by October. The vehicle is replacing previous equipment that is now 15 years old.
On describing the new addition, Floyd clarified, The heavy rescue vehicle is basically a giant toolbox on wheels.
It’s a very large fire vehicle. It doesn’t carry water and hose on it like the fire engine does, but it carries a lot of specialty equipment so that apparatus will respond to our motor vehicle acts. And that carries the extrication equipment we need.
If somebody is trapped in a vehicle, it carries a lot of specialized rescue equipment.
New Fire Stations in Sight
Construction plans for two new fire stations have also been set in place. Fire station 7 will begin its construction in early 2025 near Water Tower Road. Fire station 6, which will be stationed near the Sports Park, will host the city’s emergency operations center. Floyd expressed his hopes of the EOC being operational within the next few years.
This news not only acts as a significant advancement for the Fire Rescue Department but also as a reassurance for the residents of this beautiful coastal city. With the commitment to safety and readiness leaps forward for the North Myrtle Beach community.
