Office of State Fire Marshal

Protect. Prevent. Train. Respond.

Volunteer Strategic Assistance and Fire Equipment (V-SAFE)

Grant Information

The V-SAFE (Volunteer Strategic Assistance and Fire Equipment) program was established by the South Carolina General Assembly to ensure local fire departments, particularly volunteer and combination agencies, have access to critical equipment and resources. Since its inception, the program has provided consistent, equitable funding to strengthen frontline capabilities across the state.

 “V-SAFE ensures South Carolina’s volunteer and combination fire departments have the equipment and resources they need to operate safely and effectively,” said SC State Fire Marshal Jonathan Jones. “This program represents a continued commitment to firefighter safety, operational readiness, and the ability of these departments to serve their communities with confidence.”

Funding supports essential operational needs, including protective clothing, fire suppression and rescue equipment, communications, and training. These are investments that directly enhance firefighter safety and response capability in communities across South Carolina.

Oversight of the program is maintained through a Peer Review Panel to ensure compliance with statutory intent and responsible stewardship of funds.

For more information about the V-SAFE program, visit https://www.scstatehouse.gov/code/t23c009.php

Additional Information

V-SAFE Panel Members
Position Name Department
State Fire Marshal Chief Jonathan Jones State Fire
SC Firefighters' Association President Chief Pierce Womack Greenville County
At-Large Chief Brandon Holloman Lee County
Region 1 Chief Brad Hart Piercetown FD
Region 2 Chief Bill Dunlap Oakdale VFD
Region 3 Chief Thomas Rivers Pageland FD
Region 4 Chief Randy Swinton Williamsburg County FD
Region 5 Chief Ben Waring Berkeley County
Region 6 Chief Dennis Jackson New Holland VFD
Region 7 Chief Steve Arsenault West Laurens FD