24th Annual FireFest Returns September 28th at Camden City Arena

The 24th Annual FireFest takes place at Camden City Arena the last Saturday of September, to help kick off the Camden Fire Department’s recognition of Fire Prevention Week.  This year, the fire prevention campaign is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. Plan and Practice Your Escape!” The campaign works to educate everyone about the small but important actions they can take to keep themselves and those around them safe.

“For nearly 25 years, the Camden Fire Department has used this great community event to promote awareness about fire and life safety practices to children, as well as adults,” said Camden Fire Chief John Bowers. “Now more than ever, we need folks to be aware of their surroundings, in case of fire or some other emergency. No matter where you are, look for available exits. If the alarm system sounds, take it seriously and exit the building immediately.”

As in years past, this year’s FireFest will include the “side by side” burn demonstration, involving two constructed rooms - one with sprinklers and one without - to demonstrate how quickly fire can spread and the effects of sprinkler systems in the home. In addition, the burn demonstration will show the safety benefits of closing bedroom doors at night. Other activities at FireFest will include live Junior Explorer competitions and firefighting demonstrations, a car cruise-in featuring local Monster Truck favorite “Culture Shock”, performances from local dance teams, an expanded Kids Zone, over 50 vendors and food trucks through 1 pm. 

FireFest begins at 9 am Saturday, September 28, 2019 with a parade of new and antique fire trucks and emergency vehicles, starting from Camden City Hall, down Rutledge and Broad Streets, and ending at the City Arena in time for opening ceremonies at 9:30 am. Once again, the parade will feature the Camden Fire Department’s restored 1920 Seagrave pumper truck, Camden's first motorized fire truck, and Richland County Sheriff’s Department Lieutenant Danny Brown, well known from A&E’s “Live PD.”

“We’re excited to be able to bring back this free, fun community event that attracts thousands of residents from Kershaw County and the surrounding area year after year,” said Battalion Chief and FireFest Committee Chair Chris Tidwell. “But this is also an opportunity for us to connect directly with the community and help them learn about the importance of fire prevention and safety.” 

The Camden Fire Department would like to thank all event sponsors, particularly Chief Sponsors: Cool Care Heating & Air, Auto Money, the City of Camden, Community Broadcasters, Furniture Services Inc., Lugoff Automotive Group, and Lowes. The support of community sponsors allows FireFest to remain a free event. 

FireFest is always held the last Saturday of September to kick off National Fire Safety Month in October and National Fire Prevention Week, which begins Sunday, October 6th. 

For more information about the 24th Annual FireFest, visit www.facebook.com/camdenfirefest.