What Others Are Asking
And What You Need to Know
Looking for clarity on common topics? You’re in the right place. Our FAQ archive compiles the most frequently asked questions from our community—covering everything from emergency response procedures and fire safety programs to permits, inspections, and community outreach. You can select a specific FAQ topic to view all related questions or use the search feature to find exactly what you need.
Can’t find your answer? Don’t hesitate to reach out—we’re always happy to help clarify or provide the information you’re looking for.
When Can I Expect to Be Hired?
The Bluffton Township Fire District conducts two recruitment cycles each year. Following each cycle, a list of qualified candidates is developed for selection into upcoming SC Fire Academy classes.
What Is the Shift Schedule?
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off. Shifts begin and end at 8:00 a.m.
Who Are Your Certifications Accredited Through?
All of our CPR classes are American Heart Association (AHA) certification courses. BLS Provider CPR, Heartsaver CPR AED, and First Aid completion cards are valid for 2 years after completing the course.
Where Can I Dispose of Old Medicine/Hazardous Materials?
The Bluffton Police Department offers a safe way for residents to discard old or unused prescription drugs. A drug drop box is located in the department’s lobby and allows the public to dispose of medications during business hours.
The Bluffton Police Department is located at 101 Progressive Street in Bluffton. It’s open Monday-Thursday 8 am – 5:30 pm, Friday 8 am – 1 pm.
Additional publicly accessible disposal locations include:
- Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office – 2001 Duke St., Beaufort SC
- Beaufort County Government Building – 4819 Bluffton Parkway 2nd Floor, Bluffton SC
- Beaufort County Sheriff’s Office – 70 Shelter Cove Ln., Hilton Head SC
- CVS Bluffton – 1006 Fording Island Rd., Bluffton
- CVS Hilton Head Island – 10 Pope Ave. Hilton Hilton Head SC
- CVS Port Roya l- 1500 Ribaut Rd, Port Royal, SC
- Walgreens Okatie – 138 Okatie Center Blvd Okatie SC
- Walmart Pharmacy – 4 Bluffton Rd, Bluffton, SC 29910
- Ulmer Family Pharmacy – 68 Bluffton Rd #6 Bluffton
- Chelsea Medical Center – 719 Okatie Highway, Okatie SC
Does the Fire Department Give Tours of the Fire Station?
Yes, we do give tours of the Fire Station for groups of kids and individuals. Use the Station Tour Request form to request a fire station tour with groups of more than 5 total. Smaller groups or individuals may tour the stations at any time if the crews are available. (All requests will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the Station Tour Request Form.
Will the Fire Department Do an Equipment Display or Event Standby?
Yes, we will consider requests for events that are open to the public. To request our attendance—typically firefighters and a fire truck for school visits, neighborhood events, parades, and similar occasions—please complete the Public Event Request Form.
Please note:
- We are unable to participate in birthday parties or events that promote specific products, services, or businesses.
- The form must be submitted at least 14 days prior to the requested event date.
All requests are considered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Do You Offer CPR Classes?
We offer CPR courses each month, accredited through the American Heart Association. For course schedules, registration and a full CPR FAQ, please visit us here.
Will You Bring a Fire Truck to My Child’s Birthday Party?
Unfortunately no, we are not able to take our engines out of service for these types of events; our apparatus needs to be available to respond in the event of an emergency situation.
Can Someone Come Visit Our Class to Teach Fire Safety to the Students?
Yes, we will come to visit a school. Use the Speaker Request Form to request a program about safety, careers, guest speakers, etc. Please complete the form in its entirety and submit it at least 14 days prior to your requested program event date. (All requests will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. Please complete the Speaker Request Form.
How Can My Company Schedule On-Site CPR Training?
Visit Private CPR Course Requests for full requirements and detailed instructions for setting up private CPR training for your company or group.
What Are the Minimum Qualifications to Become a Firefighter?
To be considered for employment with the Bluffton Township Fire District, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old
- Possess a high school diploma or GED
- Hold a valid driver’s license
- Be eligible to work in the United States
- Fire and rescue experience is not required.
We hire both experienced and entry-level candidates depending on current department needs. If you’re hired without Firefighter I & II certifications, BTFD will pay for you to attend Recruit School.
If I’m Already Certified, Do I Still Need to Attend Recruit School?
If you hold current ProBoard, NFPQ, or IFSAC Firefighter I and II certifications, you will not need to attend Recruit School.
If not, you’ll be required to attend training through SCFA or BTFD, paid for by the District.
What Equipment Do I Need on Hand While Burning?
You must have a garden hose connected to a water supply or a fire extinguisher on-site to control or extinguish the fire if needed.
Can I Reschedule My Test or Interview Date?
No. To maintain fairness for all candidates, BTFD does not offer make-up testing or interviews.
What’s the Difference Between Heartsaver, BLS, and Family & Friends CPR?
BLS Provider CPR is for healthcare providers in clinical or emergency settings. Heartsaver CPR is for those with little or no medical training who need certification for work or want to be prepared for emergencies. Family & Friends CPR is a non-certification course for general interest. If you’re unsure which course you need, please consult your employer. Refunds are not available.
How Do I Properly Dispose of My Smoke or Carbon Monoxide Alarm?
Smoke or carbon monoxide alarms that are hard-wired with a battery backup can be safely thrown in the garbage once the battery is removed. For smoke and carbon monoxide alarms with a 10-year sealed lithium battery, Beaufort County residents can take them to any convenience center and place them with the Household Hazardous Waste items.
Please be sure to tell the attendant that you have an alarm with a lithium-ion battery so they can direct you to the correct bin or barrel.
For additional questions about smoke alarm recycling, please contact Beaufort County Solid Waste & Recycling at (843) 255-2736.
How Do I Request a Fire Inspection?
Please use this request form or contact the Fire Marshal’s Office at 843-548-4353 to request a fire inspection.
What Is the Starting Salary and Benefits?
Salary & Benefits
Starting Salary (as of May 2025):
- Firefighter I: $51,271.94
- Firefighter II / EMT: $55,933.02
- Promotions result in a minimum 5% salary increase
- All positions are overtime eligible
Benefits Overview
Bluffton Township Fire District offers a comprehensive benefits package, including:
- Health Coverage
100% employer-paid health insurance for the employee. Affordable, competitively priced plans are available for spouses and families, including Medical, Dental, Vision, and Supplemental Insurance options. - Retirement Benefits
Enrollment in the South Carolina Police Officers Retirement System (SC PORS), with additional contributions to the 1% Fund after completion of the probationary period. - Additional Benefits
- Employer-provided Life Insurance
- Deferred Compensation options (401(k)/457 plans)
- Tuition Reimbursement
- Robust Employee Assistance Program (EAP) offering confidential support and resources for employees and their families
Where Can I Dispose of Old American Flags?
You can dispose of old or worn U.S. flags at any Bluffton Township Fire District station.
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All BTFD stations have flag retirement receptacles located inside the public entrances where you can drop off your flag during regular hours.
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Headquarters Station 35 (357 Fording Island Rd., next to Saint Gregory’s Catholic Church) also has an outdoor drop-off bin available for your convenience at any time.
Collected flags are transferred to the Dennis J. Becker American Legion Post 205 in Bluffton, South Carolina, which ensures they are respectfully retired in accordance with proper flag etiquette.
Can I Burn Trash, Treated Wood, or Construction Debris?
No. Only natural vegetative materials from your property, firewood, or charcoal are allowed. Burning household waste or synthetic materials is strictly prohibited.