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.
What Phone Number Should My Alarm Company Use When Reporting a Fire Alarm at My Address?
843-524-2777 (this number is ONLY for alarm company use; individuals must report emergencies by calling 911.)
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.
What Would Disqualify My Application?
Disqualifiers under South Carolina law include:
- Felony conviction within the last 10 years
- Conviction for arson, drug offenses, or criminal sexual conduct
- Conviction involving abuse or exploitation of vulnerable individuals
- Inability to obtain medical clearance (OSHA/NFPA 1582)
- Inability to pass random drug/alcohol screening
Do You Offer First Aid Training?
Yes, we offer First Aid in a blended format. Complete the classroom portion online via the American Heart Association and bring your certificate for an in-person skills verification session. First Aid skills verification is held after our Heartsaver CPR AED classes. Learn more at First Aid Skills Verification.
Do I Need a Permit to Burn in Bluffton or Beaufort County?
Yes. In the Town of Bluffton, you must register with the Fire District and receive a registration number. In unincorporated Beaufort County, you must notify the SC Forestry Commission before burning.
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.
Can I Complete Only the Skills Verification With BTFD?
We only offer standalone skills verification for First Aid. BLS and Heartsaver CPR courses include both the classroom and skills components and must be completed in full.
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 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.
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
None of the Course Dates Work for Me — What Are My Options?
You can find additional class options through the American Heart Association’s course locator at Find a Course.
What Is the Shift Schedule?
Firefighters work 24-hour shifts followed by 48 hours off. Shifts begin and end at 8:00 a.m.
How Do I Settle a Bill for EMS Services?
Questions regarding EMS billing should to be directed to Beaufort County EMS at (843) 522-4006.
How Long Do Smoke Alarms Last?
The entire alarm should be replaced after 10 years. Newer units have a recommended replacement date printed on the unit. For more information on smoke alarms, visit here.
Do You Offer a Special CPR Course for K–12 Teachers and Students?
Yes, we offer K–12 Heartsaver CPR AED courses for students, faculty, and staff in K–12 schools. The cost is $7 per student and includes a completion card. These classes are available on request and must meet private course requirements.
How Can I Get a Copy of a Fire/Medical/Automobile Incident Report?
Complete the Incident / Investigation Report Request Form.
Please be aware that the report is not immediately available; once the Incident Report is ready for release, it can be e-mailed, mailed, faxed, or held at the station for you to pick up. Due to review and scheduling issues and to insure accuracy of the report, it may take up to 2 (two) weeks for the report to be made ready for release. Certain reports, such as reports of an investigative nature, may take many months to complete and a copy of said report will not be available until such time as the investigation is complete and finalized.
Do You Offer Renewal Courses for Expired CPR Certifications?
We do not offer renewal-only CPR classes. Please register for and attend the full version of the course you require.
What Number Do I Call Before Burning?
Call the SC Forestry Commission hotline: 1-800-895-7062. You’ll hear a recorded message confirming whether it’s safe to burn that day.
I Have a Public Event Coming Up; Will the Fire Department Provide Medical/Personnel Coverage for This Event?
If your event is being held in the Town of Bluffton, please contact the Town of Bluffton at 843-706-4500. If your event is not in the town limits please use the Public Event Request form. Please be aware that coverage fees may apply.
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.