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Fire Rescue Earns the 2022 Fire Safe South Carolina Community Designation Award
Every year, Fire Safe South Carolina (FSSC) and its partners congratulate 132 fire departments across the state on their active participation in developing community risk reduction plans. For the 4th consecutive year, Dorchester County Fire Rescue has once again been recognized by the FSSC for their commitment to reducing fire-related injuries in our state.
To earn the “Fire Safe South Carolina” designation, fire departments completed courses to improve data quality, trained community partners to deliver in-home safety visits, and further developed their skills through online National Fire Academy courses in risk reduction and assessment.
 Memorial Day Ceremony and Veterans Memorial Unveiling
Join us for a Memorial Day Ceremony where Dorchester County Council will honor all U.S. military personnel who have died while serving in the United States armed forces. At the close of the ceremony, members of County Council will also unveil the new Davis-Bailey Park Veterans Memorial that was installed this spring.
The Memorial Day Ceremony will be held on Monday, May 29, 2023, at 10:00am at Davis-Bailey Park located at 5190 E Jim Bilton Blvd, St George, SC 29477.
Emergency Medical Services Week
May 21-27, 2023, is the 49th annual National EMS Week. In 1974, President Gerald Ford authorized EMS Week to celebrate EMS practitioners and the important work they do in our communities. This year's theme is EMS: Where Emergency Care Begins.
As you know, our EMTs and paramedics are often the first on scene to provide lifesaving care to those in need 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Please take the time to thank our Dorchester EMS providers for the vital public service they provide to our community.
Mosquito Control Ground Spraying 2023
With the weather getting warmer, the Dorchester County Mosquito Control Division will begin their ground spraying schedule for 2023. Ground spraying takes place between 9:00pm - 5:00am, Monday-Friday, excluding holidays.
To locate your zone use the Mosquito Abatement Map that subdivides the County into fifty (50) spray zones.
Residents can also review the bi-weekly spray schedule (schedule is updated every two weeks while spraying is ongoing) and may also request ground spraying using the online request form.
2023 Hurricane Preparedness Expo and Family Fun Day
Don't miss the annual Hurricane Preparedness Expo and Family Fun Day on Saturday, June 3, 2023, from 10am to 1pm. The event will be held at Ashley River Park at 200 Renken Road in Summerville.
Everyone is encouraged to attend to learn about hurricane preparedness from local public safety and non-profit organizations. There will also be activities, face painting, balloon art, music, food trucks, and more! We are also excited to announce that Charleston Electric will be raffling off a 3600-watt Generac GP3600 portable generator!
Representatives from Tradesman Brewing Company will also be in attendance with samples for our 21 years and older crowd with our special hurricane beer, Know Your Zone, that was debuted last year!
This year, Coastal Coffee will also be there with our new one-of-a-kind coffee called Storm Surge. Come out and grab a sample to try while you enjoy the activities!
 Dorchester County's New Unified Command Unit
The Dorchester County Emergency Management Department recently received their new state-of-the-art Unified Command Unit funded through the American Rescue Plan Act. This vehicle was designed to enhance the agency's ability to effectively and efficiently respond to complex and large-scale emergencies.
The new Unified Command Unit is a 36-foot vehicle equipped with a command staff meeting area that includes video displays for planning and briefings. In addition, it also houses satellite communication, radios, and connectivity to county and 9-1-1 computer networks. The unit will be deployed at large-scale community events, disasters, search and rescues, and other emergency situations. You may have seen it recently at Summerville's Flowertown Festival or the St. George World Grits Festival!
 National Law Enforcement Week
National Law Enforcement Week recognizes all law enforcement officers who have lost their lives in the line of duty for the safety and protection of others. Agencies all over the country come together in Washington D.C. to participate in ceremonies, a vigil, and other events. While it is a time to honor our fallen, it is also a time to recognize and support all of our local law enforcement officers. Their job is far from easy so take some time the week of May 14-20 to thank our Dorchester County Sheriff's Office for their service.
 Parks and Recreation Launches New Programs and Events
Looking for ways to keep your brain sharp and your body active? Why not check out some of the new programs offered with Dorchester County Parks and Rec?
Ashley River Park will begin to host multiple education and fitness programs this summer.
Some of the programming you can expect to see there in May:
- Full Moon Yoga - 5/5/23
- Nature Bird Walk - 5/6/23
- Caribbean Night - 5/10/23
- Carnivorous Plant Workshop - 5/13/23
- Muffins with Mom/Mother's Day Event - 5/14/23
- Introduction to Photography with Your iPhone - 5/17/23
- Porch Pickin' - 5/26/23
Davis-Bailey Park has partnered with the YMCA for outdoor youth basketball and volleyball programs and adult kickball and softball programs. All programs are co-ed and run from May 8 - June 24. May 1 is the last day to register, so be sure to sign up at summervilleymca.org.
You can also catch a Charleston Stage performance of Treasure Island at Davis-Bailey Park on May 18th!
Keep track of all the different programs offered at Dorchesterparks.org. Interested in an annual park pass to the Ashley River Park? Contact (843) 806-2426 or email for more information.
 VA Benefits and Disability Claims Workshop
Dorchester County Veterans Affairs is hosting a Veterans Benefits and Disability Claims Workshop on May 30 from 2pm - 4pm at the St. George County Council Chambers (201 Johnston Street, St. George, SC 29477).
The agenda will include a disability benefits overview, dependency and indemnity compensation and pension eligibility, and a time for questions.
If you have questions about veteran benefits, please contact the Dorchester County Veterans Affairs Office at (843) 832-0050 to schedule an appointment.
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