Honoring the often Unsung Heroes Among Us: First Responders During and After Hurricane Helene
Councilman Blount’s Newsletter 10-5-24
In the aftermath of Hurricane Helene, as we begin to rebuild and move forward, I want to take a moment to reflect on a group of individuals whose work often goes unnoticed until disaster strikes—our firemen, EMS workers, and first responders. These men and women are the backbone of our community in times of crisis, putting their lives on the line to ensure that we stay safe. I’ve witnessed firsthand the dedication of these unsung heroes, especially within our own community of District 19, and I believe it’s time we give them the recognition they deserve—not just during disasters, but year-round.
The Work We Don’t Always See
When a hurricane or any other natural disaster hits, it’s easy to think of the immediate dangers—the flooding, the wind damage, the power outages. But there’s another layer to these events that many of us don’t often think about: the relentless work of those who keep us safe. First responders do more than just answer emergency calls—they clear roads, perform rescues, provide medical care in treacherous conditions, and even handle fires caused by downed power lines or gas leaks.
In District 19, the Berea Fire Department, Parker Fire Department, Duncan Chapel Fire Department, and Travelers Rest Fire Department were all on the front lines during Helene. These teams worked tirelessly, day and night, to help stranded families, secure homes from further damage, and assist in medical emergencies. It’s easy to overlook their efforts because they don’t always make the headlines, but without them, recovery would be much more difficult—and dangerous.
Our EMS workers also play an essential role. Whether it’s transporting someone who’s been injured by debris or ensuring critical medical treatments continue, they are the lifeline for those in need. During the storm, Greenville County EMS workers were everywhere, from flooded streets to impassable roads, ensuring our most vulnerable citizens were taken care of.
Behind the Scenes: A Life of Sacrifice
What many people don’t realize is that these first responders are often living at their stations during disasters, sleeping in shifts, and eating whatever quick meals they can. Their families are at home, facing the same risks we are, yet they remain focused on their mission to protect and serve. I’ve seen it with my own eyes—these brave men and women go without rest, and sometimes without seeing their families for days, just to make sure the rest of us can return to normalcy.
The work they do is grueling, and it’s easy to take it for granted when we don’t see it happening. But I want us to change that. I want us to remember that they are there for us—not just in the eye of the storm, but every day of the year.
How We Can Help
Here’s where we, as a community, can step up. There are a number of simple ways we can show our appreciation and support for our firemen, EMS workers, and first responders:
• A simple thank you: This doesn’t take much effort, but it goes a long way. The next time you see a firefighter, EMS worker, or first responder, thank them for their service. Let them know their hard work isn’t going unnoticed.
• Drop off food and supplies: Stations often become temporary homes for first responders during disasters. Bringing food, water, or basic supplies can help keep them going during those long shifts. Think about dropping off a meal or snacks at places like the Berea Fire Department, Parker Fire Department, Duncan Chapel Fire Department, or Travelers Rest Fire—which serve many of us here in District 19.
• Donate or volunteer: Many fire departments rely on donations or have volunteer programs that support their efforts. Even small contributions can make a big impact.
• Organize community support drives: We can come together as neighborhoods or groups to gather supplies—everything from non-perishable food to hygiene products. These items can be dropped off at fire stations or EMS units to provide a little extra comfort to those working through the chaos.
LOCAL HERO SPOTLIGHT - Firehouse Dogs
I had the pleasure of meeting Harold and his wife back when I first ran for office. They love this Country, our County, and the people who make it possible. They have countlessly offered his services to the community. Recently they spent the last week, daily providing meals for our County workers, first responders, fire fighters, and officers by bringing his mobile food truck over to Travelers Rest Fire Department. Not to make money or to promote themselves, but simply to be there for these amazing workers who are quickly helping us all get back on our feet! I wanted to publicly and personally thank them for their devotion to our County and for bringing some relief to our employees and emergency service members during this crisis! Support Firehouse Dogs the next time you see thek out! Learn more by visiting their facebook page: Firehouse Dogs
Leave them a like and comment while you are there!
Contact for an event:
FireHouseDogs131@gmail.com
1-864-354-9544
A Lasting Impact
These men and women are often the unsung heroes of our community, but I want to change that. Their bravery and dedication should be recognized not just after a disaster, but every day. Let’s make sure they know how much we appreciate their service, and let’s do it long before the next storm hits!
I hope you’ll join me in making sure these first responders know they have our full support. It doesn’t take much—a kind word, a meal, a donation—but it can mean the world to those who give so much to keep us safe. - BBD19
As the mother and a wife of firefighters in Greenville county thank you for shining the spotlight on the first responders
An always informative and important newsletter regardless of the topic. Thank you for these!