Serving Barnwell County and it's neighbors since 1852
Engine 116 of the Charleston Fire Department won a 2023 New Life Award for providing “exceptional service” in assisting in the birth of a child.
This New Life Award was presented to Ryan Delk (Barnwell resident), William Easterlin, Wyatt Baldwin, and Devon Unwin.
“This service exemplifies the dedication, training, courage, and commitment that is the tradition of a Charleston firefighter,” stated the department’s Facebook page.
On July 29, 2023 around 1 a.m. Engine 116 was dispatched to a scene for a pregnancy. Upon arrival they found a vehicle on the side of the road with the patient in the passenger seat of the vehicle.
“Upon assessment the crew determined delivery was imminent and the crew prepared for delivery. The baby was delivered and the crew proceeded to suction the baby's mouth and nose, stimulate them, as well as cut the umbilical cord. The crew then cleaned off the baby and wrapped them in a blanket,” states the department on Facebook. Charleston County EMS arrived on scene and the baby was transported by ambulance.
