Hear the stories of South Carolina's Fire and Rescue volunteers.

Ryan Thorne
Youngs Fire Dept.

Ryan Thorne loves his life as a volunteer firefighter. He takes immense pride in being able to help his community and be a familiar face during a difficult time. Thorne encourages anyone to volunteer because there are so many opportunities for any skill set.

Ashley Livingston
Consolidated Fire Dept.

Ashley Livingston’s favorite part about the fire service is the brotherhood and camaradery aspect of the team.

Pierre Brewton
City of Spartanburg Fire Dept

Chief Brewton likes being a positive influence on all people in his community, especially the youth.

Crystal Stephens
Gaffney Fire Department

Crystal Stephens loves the family bond between her and her crew. She hopes to master being an EMT, and move on to become a paramedic as well.

Nikki Wood
Salem Volunteer Fire Dept.

Nikki Wood leads a busy life working full time as an ophthalmic technician and mother, and still finds time to volunteer for both the Oconee County Dive and Special Rescue Team and the Salem Volunteer Fire Dept. She loves volunteering because of the teamwork aspect and the sense of importance in her community.

J’Quan Jenkins Johnson
Sumter Fire Rescue

J’Quan Jenkins Johnson says that being a firefighter has molded him into a better version of himself. Volunteering has made him more confident and outgoing, and he hopes he and his team can be role models for young people in his community.

Niki Crippen
Midway Fire-Rescue

Niki Crippen is a proud female firefirefighter, and encourages young girls to think of firefighting as a career path. She loves to continue to learn about the fire service, especially things she did not know about.