North Spartanburg Fire Department

10/21/2026

Are we seeing double!?

I think we are. A big congratulations are in order for Firefighter Andrew Anders (Engine 20 – C Shift) and Firefighter Jonathon Henderson (Truck 3 – C Shift) on officially completing their probationary period and earning their shields!

We mentioned in an earlier post that​ probation in the fire service is no walk in the park. The images shared here give just a small glimpse into the rigorous, strenuous check-offs, intensive practical evaluations, and relentless hands-on training required to make it through. From mastering technical rescue operations, district familiarization, and forcible entry to fire attack and EMS scenarios, these men were tested every step of the way.

​Earning your shield isn't just about passing tests it's about proving you can be counted on when the bell rings and seconds count. Both firefighter Anders and firefighter Henderson have put in the hard work, earned the respect of their crews, and proven their unwavering dedication to our department and the community we serve.

​Well earned, gentlemen! The learning never stops, but today we celebrate a major milestone. Let’s get to work!

10/20/2026

We are proud to share that Firefighter Pairman represented our department and community at the White House Rose Garden First Responders Lunch in Washington, D.C!

​The national event, hosted October 15th, 2026, brought together firefighters, police officers, paramedics, EMTs, and emergency volunteers from across the country. Hosted in the White House Rose Garden, the gathering honored frontline first responders for their dedicated service, sacrifice, and continuous efforts in protecting communities nationwide.

​National Recognition: Speeches acknowledging the everyday heroism and essential work performed by local fire and emergency medical services.

​Collaboration & Community: Opportunities for emergency leaders and personnel to connect with peers and leadership nationwide.

​Representing Our Department with Pride
​Firefighter Pairman carried our organization to the national stage. Whether engaging in discussions, exchanging insights with fellow first responders, or representing our dedication to community service, Firefighter Pairman exemplified the professionalism, integrity, and commitment that define our agency.

​Thank you, Firefighter Pairman, for representing us so well and showing the country the standard of excellence we strive for every day!

10/19/2026

10/19/2026

Huge congratulations to Firefighter Molly Raines on officially earning her department shield and graduating off of probation!

​In the fire service, earning your shield is a time-honored tradition that marks a major milestone. It represents the transition from probationary recruit to a fully trusted member of the crew. Someone your brothers and sisters can count on when the bell rings.

​Getting to this point is no small feat. Probationary firefighters must demonstrate complete mastery and proficiency in critical life-safety and firefighting skills under pressure. Molly’s rigorous evaluations tested her on:
• Forcible entry
• Search and rescue
• VES (Vent-Enter-Search)
• Ladder throws
• Hose stretching

​In addition to mastering these hands-on tactical skills, her comprehensive rookie book check-offs required her to prove her knowledge across a wide range of core fire service disciplines, including daily station duties, hazardous materials operations, technical rescue, and much more.

​We are proud of the hard work, dedication, and grit Molly has shown throughout her probationary period. Congratulations, firefighter Raines!

09/28/2026

09/22/2026

Please congratulate Battalion Chief Perry Gosnell and Battalion Chief Trey Rhinehart on their graduation today from the South Carolina Fire Chiefs Chief Fire Officer Program! This program is a 40 hour program designed to teach Chief Officers management, leadership, and administrative skills to be successful in leading fire departments administrative operations.

Graduation was held today as part of the South Carolina State Association of Fire Chiefs Fire Rescue Leadership Conference. Congratulations to both these fine officers on a job well done!

09/21/2026

Technical Rescue Training: Trench Rescue

During the second week of September, North Spartanburg hosted our quarterly Technical Rescue Training, with this session focused on trench rescue operations.

Trench rescues are among the most dangerous and technically challenging emergencies firefighters can face. A trench can collapse with little to no warning, trapping workers and creating extremely unstable conditions for rescuers. What may begin as a routine construction project, such as installing water and sewer lines, can quickly turn into a life-threatening emergency if a collapse occurs.

This training gave our crews the opportunity to practice the specialized skills, equipment, communication, and teamwork needed to safely respond to these incidents.

We were proud to have assistance from our members and neighboring departments, including Westview-Fairforest, Duncan, Spartanburg City, Cowpens, Holly Springs, and more. Working together during training strengthens the relationships and coordination that are so important when the call is real.

A huge thank you to everyone who participated and helped make this valuable training possible. Training together today helps us be better prepared for tomorrow.