Training

Preparing Our Firefighters for Every Challenge

What Others Are Asking

And What You Need to Know

The mission of the Bluffton Township Fire District’s Training Division is to continually enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of all department personnel through structured, progressive, and relevant training programs. The division also supports the broader organizational mission by delivering exceptional service and professional development opportunities.

A three-story beige training tower with exterior metal stairs stands on a large paved area. A red fire truck is parked nearby, and trees surround the site under a clear blue sky.

Facilities & Instructional Environment

Training is co-located with the department’s Maintenance Division and includes access to a four-story training tower designed for realistic scenario-based exercises. This allows members to sharpen their tactical skills in a controlled yet dynamic environment.

Facilities & Instructional Environment

The Training Division conducts extensive, ongoing instruction to ensure all firefighters, officers, and support personnel are prepared for the wide range of emergencies they may face. Key training areas include:

  • Fire Suppression
  • Emergency Medical Services
  • Hazardous Materials
  • Search and Rescue
  • Technical Rescue
  • Incident Command
  • Apparatus Operation
  • Officer Development

In partnership with the South Carolina Fire Academy, the division regularly hosts and delivers state and national certification courses, providing access to high-level credentials in multiple disciplines.

Leadership & Instructional Team

The Training Division is led by the Battalion Chief of Training, supported by two Assistant Training Officers (Captains) and an Administrative Assistant. This dedicated team is responsible for program development, instruction, curriculum delivery, and coordination with external training agencies.

A smiling firefighter in formal dress uniform holding a white hat stands in front of an American flag and the Bluffton Township Fire District emblem.

Paul Harrelson

Battalion Chief of Training
A uniformed fire chief stands smiling in front of an American flag and a Bluffton Township Fire District emblem, holding his hat in his hand.

Doug Favors

Captain
Assistant Training Officer
A uniformed firefighter stands holding his hat, with an American flag and a Bluffton Township Fire District emblem in the background. He is facing forward and smiling slightly.

Marcus Barnes

Captain
Assistant Training Officer
A woman with long brown hair smiles, wearing a navy blue blazer with a Bluffton Township Fire District crest. An American flag and the fire district emblem are in the background.

Crystal DeRosia-Kaznowski

Administrative Assistant

Training Facility Construction

Training Location

BTFD Training Division

19 Ulmer Road
Bluffton, SC 29910