Frequently
Asked Questions
What number do I call to make a residential burn notification?
SC Forestry Orangeburg County 1-800-517-9636
What number do I call to report an agricultural / forestry control burn?
SC Forestry dispatch Center 1-800-777-3473
How do I get a copy of a fire incident report?
Contact your local fire chief (click here) or call the Fire Services Office.
How do I schedule a station tour or a fire and life safety presentation for my group?
Contact the OC Fire Marshal’s Office at (803) 533-6218
How do I report a fire code violation?
Contact the OC Fire Marshal’s Office at (803) 533-6218
How do I submit my Tier 2 submission to my local fire department?
Fire Departments in Orangeburg County request that you submit your Tier 2 information via EPlan. For more information contact the Orangeburg Office of Emergency Services at (803) 533-6265.
How do I get free smoke detectors installed in my home?
Please complete the Smoke Alarm Request form found on the Home Page of our website.
What kind of smoke detector do I need?
Battery powered, smoke alarm preferably with a 10 year battery.
Do I need to change my smoke alarm battery if it has a 10 year battery?
It is not necessary and the battery is sealed inside the unit. If the alarm is chirping you need to replace the smoke alarm.
I’m having a party, can I use sky lanterns?
No, Office of the State Fire Marshal’s (OSFM) official interpretation bans the use of these devices in South Carolina, unless anchored or tethered.
The OSFM has indicated these devices meet the definition of Recreational Fires, as defined in Section 302.1 of the Fire Code. These devices require constant attendance as required in Section 307.5 of the Fire Code which states, “open burning, bonfires, recreational fires and use of portable outdoor fireplaces shall be constantly attended until the fire is extinguished…” There is a serious fire and safety hazard associated with sky lanterns, which includes the potential to start an unintended fire on or off the property from which they are released.
How do I find out my ISO rating?
Have your Insurance Company contact ISO
I have a funny smell in my house, what do I need to do?
Get outside and contact 911
I smell natural gas / gasoline in my house do I need to call 911?
Yes, after you get outside your house
When is Fire Prevention Month?
October
Why do so many fire apparatus respond to minor incidents?
Units are dispatched according to information received by Dispatch. Many times the type of situation found upon arrival is very different from the situation dispatched. And, part of responding to an emergency situation means being prepared to deal with the worst case scenario. Discovering that we need more units upon arrival is often too late. Experience has taught us that it’s better to have too much help than not enough.
Why do fire trucks respond to motor vehicle accidents?
Automobile accidents present other hazards such as potential fire, ruptured fuel tanks, undeployed airbags and/or the presence of hazardous materials. If any occupants are trapped they will begin the extrication (removal) process.