West Columbia Fire Chief Chris Smith told West Columbia City Council Monday that the WCFD has donated its retired equipment to students of the Lexington School District Two Innovation Center. The WCFD has given retired firefighter coats, pants, helmets and boots, and fire hose to the school for use in training.

The Innovation Center’s Firefighter course teaches search and rescue techniques and prepares students for the national Fire Service Exam.

Smith also said the WCFD donated 20 working, used Self Contained Breathing Apparatus units to the students. That gift alone saves the school district more than $30,000 because they do not have to go out and buy the units for training. “These are the essential tools to be a firefighter,” Smith told council.

Mayor Pro-Tem Tem Miles said, “I am so proud of the students in our district who are learning the real-life skills that are needed to serve and protect our community. I am thankful that our city is able to contribute to the education of tomorrow’s heroes.”

A student was at the meeting to demonstrate the use of a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus unit.

Lexington Two Firefighter Instructor David Crossland, was also at the meeting and expressed his gratitude.

“I’d like to extend a huge thank you,” said Crossland, who runs the first-year program that trains students “for a good career.” Each student wrote a thank you note to the WCFD and council.

Crossland also said he likes the innovation center’s close relationship with the West Columbia Fire Department and he looks forward to working together in the future.