New battalion chief announced

The Bluffton Township Fire District announced the promotion of Lieutenant Giovanni Scianna to Battalion Chief of Shift 2. Chief Scianna has been a dedicated member of the Fire District since he began his firefighting career in March 2008.

Chief Scianna earned his Nationally Registered Paramedic (NREMT-P) certification in 2009 and has contributed significantly to the Fire District’s mission through his involvement in specialized response teams. As a member of South Carolina Regional Response Team 4, he deployed in 2014 to assist with emergency operations during the severe ice storms that impacted the Upstate. Additionally, he has served as a member of the Fire District’s Wildland Team, further strengthening the department’s ability to respond to diverse emergency situations.

Known as “Gio” to his colleagues, Chief Scianna has also been an integral part of the Bluffton Fire Rescue Running Team, an eight-time Siller Cup Champion in the Tunnel to Towers Foundation 5K held in Columbia, SC. The team has remained undefeated in the event since 2015, with the exception of cancellations due to COVID-19.

Beyond his operational roles, Chief Scianna has played a key role in shaping the Fire District’s culture of excellence and firefighter well-being. He has served on the Awards Committee and was instrumental in establishing the Fire District’s Wellness Committee, reflecting his dedication to firefighter health and safety. Additionally, he currently oversees the department’s hydrant maintenance program, ensuring the operational readiness of hydrants across the nearly 250-square-mile Fire District.

Chief Scianna steps into the role previously held by Battalion Chief Derek Franks, who retired in January after more than 25 years of service.