Members of the Rescue Squad are trained and certified in the skills needed to respond effectively to the full range of emergencies in our community. Many of us are experienced or currently employed as EMTs and paramedics, firefighters, and law enforcement officers. In some cases, we train professionals in these skills. Members have been with the Rescue Squad for an average of 8 years and some over 20 years.
The Leadership Team
The Chief has a team of senior officers that oversee operations, training, department records and the finances of the organization.
Brian Hinton
Chief of DepartmentTherrell Williams
Deputy ChiefBrandon Hinton
Asst. ChiefBuffy Rowe
Asst. Chief / SecretaryTom Ruppel
Asst. Chief / Treasurer
A message from the Chief
Charleston County Volunteer Rescue Squad has proudly served the community of this County for almost 60 years as a vital part of the emergency services network that you depend on. We are your neighbors, friends and co-workers and we gladly give our time and expertise at any hour of the day, 365 days a year so that we can contribute to your safety. Year-to-date, we have responded to almost 1,000 incidents in every part of the County, covering an area of land and water of over 1,300 square miles, including 80 miles of coastline.
We work closely with County EMS, career and volunteer fire departments, and law enforcement to provide the highest level of responsiveness and care to those in need. Aside from emergencies on land and sea, you can find us at major public events like marathons and fairs where we supplement the medical assets on scene to ensure that emergency care is provided quickly and effectively. Please look for us there and say hello.
While we are largely funded by the County, we also rely on the generosity of County residents to maintain our state of readiness, so please consider supporting us on this website, on Facebook or through AmazonSmile.
We are always looking for new members so think about whether you’d like to part of this remarkable organization. While many of our members have experience and even careers as first responders, it is not a requirement. If you want to serve your community and are ready for the training and camaraderie of the Squad, stop by our headquarters any Tuesday evening – we’d be happy to give you a tour and talk about the value that it has brought to each of us.
Please know that we welcome your questions and suggestions at any time.
Chief of Department
The Organization
The Rescue Squad is organized into five squads, that rotate duty weeks so that each squad is on duty one week in five. Each Squad is headed by a Division Chief and a Battalion Chief who are the Duty Officers for their week on duty.
In addition to emergency response, members are expected to serve on committees that ensure that the Rescue Squad operates effectively and efficiently and that members have input.
Our Members
They train for over 75 hours each year in emergency skills that include extrication, search and rescue, large animal rescue and technical rescue on land, and rescue and recovery for the full spectrum of marine emergencies.
Our members use a broad range of vehicles and boats and rescue equipment and tools to ensure rapid effective response.
Training & Certifications
Training is provided to all members (both new and existing) to ensure they can provide adequate support when emergencies occur. All members are required to do the following training (and maintain applicable certifications):
- Automated External Defibrillator (AED) training and certification
- Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) training and certification
- Emergency Medical Responder (EMR) training and certification
- First Responder training and certification
Join the Team
The demands on our volunteers have grown over the years and the need for additional members has grown along with it. Learn more about becoming a member.