Cayce– Fire Chief Steven Bullard and Lieutenant Austin Rast accepted the Cayce Fire Department’s second Fire Safe SC Community Designation for 2024 during the annual Fire-Rescue Conference held in Myrtle Beach.
The award recognizes fire departments that go above and beyond in promoting fire safety and reducing home fire-related injuries in their communities. Cayce earned the designation through a combination of home visit programs, smoke alarm installations, community education, and partnerships that support broader safety initiatives.
Among the programs highlighted was the department’s Muffin Cares initiative, which raises awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and encourages safe drug disposal. The department also cited strong partnerships with organizations such as The Modern Locksmith, The Courage Center, Lexington County EMS, and the Taylor Watford Foundation, all of which contributed to achieving this recognition.
“These designated communities continually work to reduce home fire-related injuries, ultimately making both residents and firefighters safer,” said Fire Safe SC’s Community Risk Reduction Chief Josh Fulbright. “They promote consistent fire and life safety messaging and emphasize the importance of accurate data collection in response to emergencies.”
This year, 208 fire departments across the state received the Fire Safe SC designation, marking a nearly 35% increase from the previous year. Departments range from first-time honorees to long-standing designees continuing to deepen their outreach and risk reduction efforts.
“The enthusiasm for obtaining this designation continues to grow,” Fulbright added. “Some departments seek it again with new purpose, while others build even greater depth and impact within their communities.”
For the Cayce Fire Department, the recognition underscores a commitment to proactive community service and life safety education that continues to evolve year after year.
