Wade Hampton Fire and Sewer District

08/17/2026

When was the last time you checked the age of your smoke alarms?

We're not talking about the batteries. We're talking about the alarms themselves.

Smoke alarms don't last forever. Generally, they should be replaced 10 years after the date of manufacture, even if they still seem to be working properly. As alarms age, the sensors inside them can become less reliable.

Checking the age is easy.

Take the smoke alarm down and look at the back or side of the unit. You should find a label showing the date of manufacture. If that date is more than 10 years ago (or if you can't find a date at all), it's time to replace the alarm.

While you're checking, take a few minutes to make sure you have working smoke alarms where you need them. Test each alarm using the test button, and replace batteries as needed unless you have a sealed 10-year battery model.

Working smoke alarms provide an early warning that can give you and your family valuable time to get out safely when a fire occurs.

So here's a quick homework assignment from the Wade Hampton Fire Department. Check the date on your smoke alarms today.

You might be surprised by how old they are.

08/10/2026

School buses are about to get rolling again, and school zones will be busy. That means it's time for all of us to pay a little extra attention behind the wheel.

As students head back to school, the Wade Hampton Fire Department is reminding drivers that a few extra seconds of patience can make a big difference in keeping children safe.

Slow down when you're approaching a school zone. Be prepared for traffic to stop unexpectedly. Watch carefully for children crossing streets, walking along sidewalks, or riding bicycles, and when a school bus stops to pick up or drop off students, know the law and stop when required.

Most importantly, put the phone down. A text, notification, or phone call can wait. Children can be unpredictable around traffic, and drivers need their full attention on the road...and using a phone behind the wheel is against state law.

Mornings can be hectic. Afternoons can be busy. Wherever you're headed, give yourself a little extra time and help make sure every student gets to school and back home safely.

Have a safe and successful school year from all of us at the Wade Hampton Fire Department.

08/06/2026

A home fire doesn't just take away possessions. It can take away a family's sense of security, comfort, and hope.

That's why LEO Santa's Reignite Hope program exists.

When families experience the devastating loss of a home to fire, Reignite Hope steps in to help provide essential items and support as they begin rebuilding their lives. It's one way LEO Santa extends the spirit of giving far beyond the holiday season.

You can help make that possible by joining us for the LEO Santa Guiding Light Gala & Silent Auction on Saturday, August 29, from 6:00 p.m. - 11:00 p.m. at the Hilton Greenville.

Whether you're attending with friends, sponsoring the event, or simply sharing this post, you're helping bring hope to children and families when they need it most.

Purchase tickets or become a sponsor by scanning the QR code below or visiting www.leosantakids.com/gala

Together, we can help families recover from tragedy, brighten the holidays for children in need, and ensure that hope shines even in life's darkest moments.

08/03/2026

What Happens After You Call 911?

When you dial 911, a lot happens before firefighters ever knock on your door.

Every emergency response begins with a trained 911 dispatcher who gathers critical information about what's happening and where help is needed, and at Wade Hampton, we have our own dispatch center focused on Wade Hampton neighbors and businesses.

You may wonder why the dispatcher asks so many questions, but it's really a simple answer. Those questions help us provide the right response as quickly and safely as possible.

Here's what happens behind the scenes:
• Your call is answered by a 911 dispatcher.
• The dispatcher confirms your location and the nature of the emergency.
• Firefighters are dispatched while the dispatcher may continue asking questions and providing lifesaving instructions.
• Our crews respond while preparing for the type of emergency they've been told to expect.
• Once on scene, firefighters assess the situation, provide emergency care, control hazards, or extinguish the fire.
• After the emergency is over, detailed reports are completed to document the incident and help improve future emergency response.

Every question, every radio transmission, and every step is focused on one goal. That's getting the right help to you as quickly as possible.

If you ever need us, remember to stay calm, answer the dispatcher's questions, and don't hang up until you're told it's OK to do so.

We're ready whenever you need us.

07/27/2026

SECONDS MATTER. HELP US GET THERE WITHOUT DELAYS.

When you call 911, you expect firefighters and paramedics to arrive as quickly as possible, but sometimes, getting to an emergency is made more difficult by something entirely preventable. That's blocked access.

You can help keep emergency response moving by remembering a few simple guidelines:
• Never park in front of or too close to a fire hydrant.
• Avoid parking in designated fire lanes, even if you're "just running in for a minute." (This one happens at certain grocery stores a lot.)
• Leave enough room for large fire trucks to safely navigate neighborhood streets and cul-de-sacs.
• When possible, keep your driveway clear so emergency personnel have easy access if they're responding to your home.

Fire engines are much larger than most people realize. They need extra room to turn corners, maneuver through neighborhoods, and position close to an emergency. A vehicle parked in the wrong place can force crews to stop, reposition, or carry equipment farther. That costs valuable time.

The next time you park, take a quick look around. That small decision could help firefighters reach someone in need just a little bit faster.

07/20/2026

Do you know where your home's utility shutoffs are?

It's one of those things most people don't think about until they need it.

If a water line bursts, an appliance starts leaking, or a storm damages your home, knowing how to quickly shut off your utilities can help prevent additional damage and keep your family safer until help arrives.

Take a few minutes this week to identify the location of your home's:
💧 Main water shutoff valve,
⚡ Main electrical breaker panel, and
🔥 Natural gas shutoff (if your home has natural gas)

If you're unsure where they're located, check with your utility provider, homebuilder, landlord, or a trusted professional. Once you've found them, make sure everyone in your household who is old enough knows where they are and understands when it's appropriate to use them.

Keep in mind that if you ever smell natural gas or suspect a gas leak:
• Leave the building immediately.
• Do not turn electrical switches or appliances on or off.
• Call 911 and your natural gas provider from a safe location.

A few minutes spent learning today can make a big difference during an emergency tomorrow.

07/07/2026

It may not feel a lot like Christmas since we're all melting, but that doesn't mean we can't get ready to bring Christmas magic to families who need it this year. LEO Santa Toy Drive is already collecting donations.

If you can, join LEO Santa’s “Christmas in July” fundraiser. It’s probably easier for you to click a link instead of accessing a QR code, so go to https://bit.ly/cij2026 and become a warm weather elf today.

🎄☀️ Christmas in July with Leo Santa! ☀️🎄

Who says you have to wait until December for a little holiday magic? ❤️

Leo Santa is making his summer list, checking it twice, and spreading joy all season long! Whether you're dreaming of cooler weather, catching fireflies, or enjoying sunshine with family and friends, there's always room for a little holiday spirit.

07/06/2026

Have you ever driven past a fire scene on a hot summer day (like this one) and wondered how firefighters can work while wearing all that heavy gear?

The answer is simple. Every piece of equipment is designed to protect firefighters so they can protect you.

A firefighter's turnout gear includes a helmet, protective hood, coat, pants, gloves, boots, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA), and face mask. Together, this equipment shields firefighters from extreme heat, falling debris, sharp objects, hazardous materials, and the toxic smoke that can fill a burning building.

Just the protective gear and air pack can weigh more than 60 pounds before additional tools like hoses, axes, or rescue equipment are added. While it can be physically demanding, especially during South Carolina summers, this gear is essential for keeping firefighters as safe as possible while they search for victims, fight fires, and respond to emergencies.

Behind every call is hours of training and equipment designed to help our firefighters return home safely.

The next time you see a firefighter fully geared up, remember that every pound serves a purpose, and every piece of equipment helps make it possible for us to serve our community when you need us most.

07/04/2026

Today, we celebrate more than just the Fourth of July. We celebrate the 250th anniversary of the Declaration of Independence and the beginning of America's 250th birthday celebration.

For two and a half centuries, the ideals of liberty, courage, and service have helped shape our nation. Those same values continue to inspire the firefighters, EMTs, and support personnel who proudly serve the Wade Hampton community every day.

As you enjoy time with family and friends, we encourage everyone to celebrate responsibly. Attend a professional fireworks display if possible, keep a close eye on children around fireworks and grills, stay hydrated in the summer heat, and never hesitate to call 911 in an emergency.

From all of us at the Wade Hampton Fire Department, we wish you a safe, happy, and meaningful Independence Day. Happy Birthday, America!

06/29/2026

With temperatures expected to climb toward 100 degrees and heat index values approaching 105 degrees later this week, spending time outdoors requires a little extra planning.

Whether you're taking the kids to the park, attending a community event, watching youth sports, doing yardwork, or simply enjoying time outside, a few simple precautions can help you stay safe if an emergency arises.

Before you head out:

💧 Bring more water than you think you'll need. Hot weather can cause dehydration faster than many people realize, even during routine outdoor activities.

📱 Carry a fully charged cell phone. If someone becomes ill or injured, being able to quickly call 911 can make all the difference.

👨‍👩‍👧 Tell someone your plans. Let a family member or friend know where you'll be and when you expect to return, especially if you'll be away for an extended period.

📍 Know your location. Take note of the address, park name, field number, or nearby landmarks. If you ever need emergency assistance, providing an exact location helps first responders reach you as quickly as possible.

A few minutes of preparation before you leave home can help prevent a small problem from becoming a serious emergency.

Stay hydrated!