STATION 1

Friendly Volunteer Fire Department (the name “Friendly” from the “City of Friendly Folk” nickname of Newberry) began its service out of a building on what is now Nance Street, just below the Hampton Inn hotel ( the building is no longer in existence).  That first location was a donation from a local businessperson and the department responded to calls from this site until the current building on Harrington Street was opened in the late 1970’s.  Friendly is currently in the process of moving to Adelaide street-the current fairgrounds/Emergency Services training grounds- in the summer of 2027.  This move is due to the foresight and graciousness of the voters of Newberry in choosing to build a joint Rescue Squad/Fire Station to house Friendly for its next 50 years.

 

Station 1 is part of the Newberry County Fire Service and is one of 11 departments providing volunteer coverage to the citizens of Newberry County.   All persons are volunteers – are not paid- and are most likely your neighbors.  Officers of the department are elected by its members and serve two-year terms.  Friendly usually maintains around 25 members on its roster- but is always welcoming and seeking additional members.{see the “join our team” tab on the main page}

 

Fire Trucks ( equipment) for Friendly are purchased, fueled, insured, and maintained by taxpayer dollars through Newberry County.

 

Donations and grants make up the largest portion of operating and equipment improving revenue sources for Friendly Fire Department.

 

Friendly Fire Department responds to vehicles accidents, fires, hazardous materials incidents, and supports the medical response community of Newberry with manpower and equipment.  Friendly typically responds to around 300 calls per year.

 

Members are not compensated for their time and efforts.  Members are covered under a 33% of average firefighter income, workers compensation policy; and a supplemental accident insurance program -through Newberry County.  Members who qualify with training and response activity, are eligible for a South Carolina income tax deduction.  State allocated fire insurance premium funds are contributed to qualifying members into a length of service award ,supplemental, defined contribution, retirement program.