The Suppression Operations Division operates from 32 strategically located fire stations throughout Columbia and Richland County to control unwanted fire, conduct rescues, mitigate hazardous materials incidents, minimize damage from natural disasters, and to stabilize patients suffering from life-threatening medical emergencies. The Division operates fire stations within the City of Columbia as well as stations funded under contract to Richland County.

Suppression Operations

The Columbia Fire Department’s suppression bureau is responsible for effective responses to all emergencies including the safe mitigation of all fires, technical rescues, hazardous materials incidents, natural disasters, and medical calls for the City of Columbia and Richland County. Our suppression bureau employs 441 career Firefighters at full staffing as well as 100+ volunteers to operate 32 Fire Stations, in 5 Battalions, covering approximately 750 square miles with a population of 390,000 residents. These Firefighters operate 31 Engine Companies, 5 Ladder Companies, 5 Rescue Companies, 15 Water Tenders, and 16 Brush Trucks to mitigate all types of incidents.

Our Staff:

Consists of upper management level supervisor who commands firefighting and specialize operations an the performance of emergency and non-emergency tasks.

Nicholas Martin

Chief of Training

The Training Bureau is led by Battalion Chief Nicholas Martin. Chief Martin has served the Department since February 2013. His duties include management, coordination and oversight of all personnel concerning Professional Standards, Training Curriculum, In-service Training, the First Responder Program, Research and Development, Columbia Fire Department Rank Academies, and the Columbia Fire Recruit School.

Daniel McManus

Special Operation Chief

After working in the fire service for nearly 23 years as a Rescue Chief and Assistant State Fire Marshal, he changed his career path to further pursue Emergency Response. As the Division Chief of Special Operations for the City of Columbia, Chief McManus says he is humbled and excited to take on the challenge to lead such a talented group of firefighters.

Vacant

Medical Training Officer

The Medical Training Officer continuously evaluates EMS and EMR fire department employees’ job performance, and implements and assures continued compliance with the training requirements as outlined by the District’s Medical Director. The Medical Training Officer schedules, oversees, and evaluates emergency response drills and exercises for the Training Department, assists the Assistant Chief Operations in reviewing, developing, and implementing EMS protocols for all levels within the EMS System.

Suppression Division Chiefs

James T. Carricato

First Shift Division Chief

Chief Carricato is the First Shift Division Chief with 23 years of experience with the Columbia Fire Department. He has a passion teaching emergency preparedness and spending time traveling with his family.

Mickey L. Folsom

Second Shift Division Chief

Chief Folsom is the Second Shift Division Chief with 21 years of experience in the Columbia Fire Department. He believes the men and woman he serves / supervises makes CFD Great. He loves mentoring children in the community and giving back to the elderly.

Scott L. Jacobs

Third Shift Division Chief

Chief Jacobs - a native of Richland County - has over 28 years of service to the Columbia Fire Department. He currently serves as the 3rd Shift Division Chief. Servant leadership is his driving force.