5 Critical Updates You Must Know About The Myrtle Beach Fire Department's New Era Of Service
Contents
A New Era of Infrastructure: Fire Station Grand Openings and Future Plans
The physical footprint of the Myrtle Beach Fire Department is expanding dramatically, a direct response to the city’s population surge and increased call volume. This expansion ensures faster response times and better resource deployment across the municipality.Myrtle Beach Fire Station No. 3 Grand Opening
One of the most exciting recent developments is the grand opening of the new Fire Station No. 3, which is scheduled for Saturday, November 15, 2025. This state-of-the-art facility represents a major investment in community safety, replacing an older structure with modern amenities and increased capacity for equipment and personnel. The strategic location of the new station will significantly improve the department's ability to respond to emergencies in its coverage area.Updates on Future Fire Station No. 1
In addition to Station 3, the Myrtle Beach Fire Department is moving forward with plans for its future Station No. 1. This project is a key component of the department’s long-term strategy to modernize its facilities and ensure that its central command and operations hub is equipped to handle the complex needs of a major coastal city. These infrastructure projects highlight the city's commitment to maintaining a world-class fire and rescue service.Strategic Staffing and the Push for a 24-Hour Shift Model
To meet the demands of a service that answered 13,044 calls in 2020—with a majority (8,213) being for medical and rescue services—the MBFD is actively working to optimize its staffing structure.Federal Grant Application for New Firefighters
The Myrtle Beach City Council has taken a crucial step by voting to apply for a federal grant aimed at significantly boosting the department's personnel. The goal is to add eight new firefighters to the roster. This augmentation is essential for the department to move closer to a more efficient and sustainable 24-hour shift model, which is a modern standard for high-performing fire departments.Current MBFD Recruitment Initiatives
The department is continuously accepting applications for critical roles. The Myrtle Beach Fire Department is hiring for both Firefighter/EMT and Firefighter/Paramedic positions. Notably, the MBFD encourages applications from candidates without prior college degrees or extensive experience, emphasizing a commitment to comprehensive internal training and development. This open recruitment strategy is vital for maintaining a full roster of highly trained personnel, all of whom are sworn employees trained to the NFPA Firefighter II Level and often hold current National Registry EMT certification.Leadership and Operational Excellence: Fire Chief Tom Gwyer and ISO Rating 1
The operational success of the MBFD is underpinned by stable, experienced leadership and a commitment to maintaining the highest possible standards.Fire Chief Tom Gwyer's Veteran Leadership
The department is led by Fire Chief Tom Gwyer, a seasoned professional who has been with the Myrtle Beach Fire Department since 1993 and was appointed to his current position in 2018. Chief Gwyer’s long tenure provides institutional knowledge and consistent direction, ensuring the MBFD remains a highly trained and well-equipped firefighting and EMS organization. His leadership is focused on maintaining the department's reputation for excellent fire suppression and protection services.Maintaining the Prestigious ISO Rating 1
The Myrtle Beach Fire Department holds an exceptional ISO Rating of 1. The Insurance Services Office (ISO) rating is a critical measure used by insurance companies to assess the quality of a community's fire protection. An ISO Class 1 rating is the highest possible designation, indicating that the MBFD meets the most rigorous standards for fire suppression capabilities, including water supply, emergency communications, and department training. This top-tier rating can often translate to lower property insurance premiums for residents and businesses within the city.Community Engagement and Specialized Training Programs
Beyond emergency response, the MBFD is deeply involved in community outreach and specialized training, fostering a strong relationship with the public and preparing the next generation of first responders.The Junior Firefighter Program
The department is investing in future talent through its Junior Firefighter Program. This initiative provides young community members with invaluable exposure to the world of fire and rescue. The orientation for the program is set for Tuesday, January 28, 2025, where participants will get hands-on experience by visiting fire stations, observing training, and assisting with community outreach events. This program is a vital pipeline for future Firefighter/EMT candidates.Citizens Fire Academy
For adults interested in understanding the inner workings of the department, the Citizens Fire Academy offers a comprehensive 10-week program. Participants get a unique, immersive experience, including the opportunity to wear fire gear, drive a fire truck, and learn water rescue skills. This engagement not only educates the public but also builds a crucial layer of transparency and support for the department's mission.MBFD Organizational Structure and Core Services
The Myrtle Beach Fire Department is a career-based department with a clear and effective organizational structure designed for rapid, coordinated response to any emergency. The MBFD’s rank structure ensures clear lines of command and specialized expertise across all operations: * Fire Chief: The highest authority, currently Tom Gwyer. * Deputy Chief: Oversees Administration and Operations. * Division Chief: Responsible for Special Operations, including specialized rescue teams. * Battalion Chief: Commands a specific shift (e.g., A Shift, B Shift, C Shift) and manages daily operations. * Captain: Serves as Station Captains across the department's various stations. The core services provided by the MBFD are comprehensive, focusing on all aspects of community safety: * Fire Suppression and Protection: Rapid response to structural and wildland fires, maintaining the city’s ISO 1 rating. * Emergency Medical Services (EMS): Providing advanced medical care, as evidenced by the high volume of medical calls. * Rescue Services: Including specialized water rescue and technical rescue operations, critical for a coastal city environment. * Fire Prevention and Education: Conducting inspections and public education to minimize fire risk. The recent minor fire incident on Ocean Boulevard, where crews were on the scene of an alarm, serves as a reminder of the daily, essential work the MBFD performs to protect the city’s valuable properties and citizens. The ongoing dedication to new infrastructure, strategic staffing, and community programs ensures the Myrtle Beach Fire Department is well-prepared for the future challenges of one of South Carolina's most dynamic cities.
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