Bluffton, SC – Bluffton Township Fire District (BTFD) Stations 31, 34, 35, and 38 responded to a residential structure fire last night on Biltmore Drive in the Sun City community. The call was received shortly after 10:00 p.m., mobilizing 25 BTFD personnel who contained the fire to the garage area, limiting further structural damage. Despite best efforts, the incident resulted in significant smoke damage throughout the home, displacing the occupants.
Both residents of the home were accounted for. The homeowner was able to evacuate without injury, while the second resident was not present at the time the fire broke out. Firefighters demonstrated their dedication to life safety by rescuing the family’s cat from a bedroom and reuniting it with the homeowner, who was being assisted by neighbors nearby.
“Our crews were on the scene within 7 minutes after being dispatched, but the fire had already engulfed a car and motorcycle in the garage,” said Fire Chief Paul Boulware. He continued, “Smoke alarms were activated when our firefighters arrived, and thankfully, the home’s owner was able to get out safely.”
The cause of the fire remains undetermined due to extensive damage. According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), local fire departments respond to approximately 346,800 home structure fires each year. BTFD emphasizes the importance of having operational smoke alarms and urges residents to check their devices monthly. Additionally, residents are reminded to always properly extinguish cigarettes in safe containers to prevent accidental fires.
The American Red Cross has been engaged to provide initial support for the displaced family. BTFD extends its gratitude to Beaufort County EMS and Sun City’s Security team for their vital support during the response.
For more fire prevention tips and safety information, please visit BlufftonFD.com or contact the Fire District at (843) 757-2800.