Florence Fire Departments Unite to Aid Upstate Communities Affected by Hurricane Helene
Florence, S.C. – In a heartwarming display of camaraderie and community spirit, five fire departments from the Pee Dee region have come together to provide much-needed assistance to areas hit hard by Hurricane Helene. Crews from Howe Springs, Hannah-Salem-Friendfield, Windy Hill, Olanta, and Sardis-Timmonsville have rolled up their sleeves and are working tirelessly to help residents in Greenville and Pickens counties.
Courage Under Fire
These volunteer fire departments have dispatched a dedicated team of 10 brave souls, equipped with engine and ladder companies, to support emergency efforts in the Upstate. This collaborative effort is made possible through a statewide mutual aid agreement, which ensures that resources and personnel are mobilized efficiently during crises. Howe Springs Fire Chief Billy Dillon explained that many areas are still inaccessible due to flooded roads, leaving *families trapped in their homes*.
“They still have a lot of areas they haven’t even made access to. There are still families that are trapped in their homes, just due to roads not being opened,” Dillon said. His team isn’t just waiting around for emergencies; they’re actively clearing roadways to ensure that families can reach safety when needed.
Throwing a Lifeline
Before heading to the Upstate, this team lent a helping hand to residents affected in Florence County. “Any time a storm comes through, we’re out there with the DOT and the county public works clearing roads, making sure people have access to get away from their residence if needed,” Dillon explained, highlighting the ongoing commitment of local heroes in times of need.
A Shared Mission
The situation in the Upstate is tough, with many residents facing *disconnection* – literally – as cell phone services are down, complicating any efforts to contact first responders during this crisis. It’s a dangerous time out there, but Dillon assured that Pee Dee volunteers stepped up without hesitation to help their fellow citizens, saying, “That’s what makes us feel good about it. They took an oath to serve and protect their citizens.”
It’s not just about the fire departments helping those in need; for many of these firefighters, the stakes are personal. Dillon pointed out that most of the firefighters serving in those affected areas have family living there. “Most of the firefighters in those areas, that’s where their families are at, so they’re kind of devastated themselves. We’re able to go in and help and take some of that stress off of them,” he remarked, radiating sheer pride in the collaborative spirit of service.
Returning Home with Resolve
As the fires burn bright in their hearts, the crews from Florence’s Pee Dee region are expected to return to their home stations by the end of the week after being a beacon of hope for those who need it most. Their ready availability and dedicated approach truly make a difference in a time of despair.
It’s touching to see how communities band together in challenging times, and these firefighters are a testament to the steadfast spirit and dedication that characterizes our broader societal landscape. Their selfless acts are not just about *putting out fires but lighting the way* for those in distress, proving that in the face of adversity, heart and heroism shine the brightest.
