SCEMD Coordinates Statewide Full-Scale Wildfire Exercise

Columbia, S.C. – The South Carolina Emergency Management Division (SCEMD), members of the State Emergency Response Team (SERT), and county emergency management agencies participated in a three-day wildfire exercise aimed at sharpening coordination and strengthening South Carolina’s readiness for wildfire threats.

The multiagency event brought together state, local and federal partners to practice response operations under realistic wildfire scenarios. The exercise included simulated wildfire incidents, operational decision-making, resource deployment and interagency communication to assess readiness and improve coordination.

On the final day, participants transitioned into a recovery tabletop discussion to explore post-wildfire recovery efforts. The tabletop allowed the State Recovery Task Force to review strategies for support, restoration, and resource needs following wildfires that impact communities, infrastructure, and natural resources.

“Exercises like this are critical for ensuring we are prepared not only to respond to wildfires but to support recovery in their aftermath,” said Kim Stenson, director of SCEMD. “Coordinating across all levels of government and local partners strengthens our ability to protect residents and property.”

SERT officials encourage residents to take steps now to reduce wildfire risk and prepare their homes and families. Wildfires in South Carolina are most often caused by human activity, with escaped debris burns leading to more ignitions than all other causes combined.

To help prevent wildfires, the South Carolina Forestry Commission recommends that residents follow these safety tips:

• Notify authorities before burning: South Carolina law requires citizens to notify the South Carolina Forestry Commission before conducting outdoor burns and to take proper precautions to prevent runaway fires. Use SCFC's online system or call your county’s toll-free notification line, both available at gov/notify.

• Take proper precautions: Clear a firebreak around the burn area, keep tools and water nearby, stay with the fire at all times, and fully extinguish the fire, preferably with water, until it is cool to the touch.

• Avoid careless activities: Never leave campfires unattended and avoid activities that could generate sparks, such as dragging chains or operating equipment without spark arrestors.

For more information on wildfire preparedness, visit scfc.gov.