Strengthening SC District 1 Volunteer Emergency Services

 

Strengthening Volunteer Emergency Services in SC District 1

Our community's backbone is the volunteer firefighters, EMS professionals, and first responders who serve without fanfare. Nationwide, over 50% of firefighters are unpaid volunteers—an incredible 780,000 individuals—who provide around $47 billion in lifesaving efforts annually. It's time we match their dedication with tangible support.

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🌲 Wildfire Preparedness & Aerial Response

States with dense forests and vulnerable coastal areas are increasingly deploying air-tankers and helitack stations to fight wildfires efficiently . I propose establishing coastal and rural air tanker bases in District 1 and investing in wildfire training for every local fire and EMS unit, paired with essential equipment—so they are ready when wildfire strikes.

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✈️ Aircraft Emergency Readiness

All fire, EMS, and police departments near airports must be equipped and trained for plane emergencies. Following FAA guidelines, we’ll ensure departments have crash-response kits and conduct interagency drills to prepare for any aircraft-related incident.

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🚨 Mass-Casualty & Medical Response Capabilities

I’ll implement mass-casualty response trailers (MCI trailers) and drill programs for all departments—fire, EMS, and police—to handle critical events efficiently . Additionally, law enforcement officers will carry oxygen kits and be trained in life-saving airway support for emergencies when EMS is delayed.

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💰 Tax Incentives & Volunteer Support

To encourage and sustain volunteer force:

• Expand tax breaks—up to $6,000 for volunteering—as seen in federal proposals.

• Secure state and federal grants like FEMA’s Assistance to Firefighters and SAFER grants for gear and training.

• Initiate LOSAP retirement benefits and wellness programs, mirroring successful models from across the country.

• Launch training hubs with water access and simulation grounds to ensure readiness for all disaster types.

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✅ Why This Matters for District 1

Benefit	Impact
Wildfire + aircraft readiness	Faster, safer local responses
Enhanced mass-casualty care	Protects more lives during crises
Oxygen-equipped law enforcement	Immediate lifesaving action
Improved volunteer retention	Stronger, more resilient force
Rural-ready training & hubs	Equips every community

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Let’s ensure our volunteer and paid responders have the training, tools, and incentives they need to protect District 1—no matter the challenge. With this plan, we invest in our community's safety, resilience, and future.