A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit us at the SAFRE Conference this week.
We always enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new departments, and talk about the challenges and goals you're working toward. Conversations like these are what make conferences so valuable.
Whether you stopped by to ask a question, check out equipment, or simply introduce yourself, we truly appreciate you taking the time to connect with our team.
Thank you to the SAFRE for hosting another great conference, and thank you to everyone who made us feel so welcome.
If we didn't get a chance to talk or if you have more questions after the conference, don't hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help.
If you’re at the conference, stop by and say hello to the Piedmont Fire team. Come check out the equipment, talk shop, ask questions, or just catch up with us.
📍 Come find us and let’s talk fire service! We’re looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and meeting some new ones.
Fire hose can look perfectly fine on the outside while still developing wear over time from use, age, heat exposure, and internal stress.
That's why routine hose testing and inspections are so important. They help identify potential issues before they become a problem on the fireground and ensure your equipment is ready when you need it most.
If testing reveals it's time for replacement, Piedmont Fire offers trusted hose solutSnap-tite Hose-tite Hose to help keep your department prepared.
Have questions about hose selection or replacement? Our team is always happy to help. ... See MoreSee Less
The Piedmont Fire team is excited to be attending the SAFRE Conference in Raleigh August 12–15!
Conferences are one of our favorite opportunities to connect with the firefighters and departments we serve. Whether you're exploring new equipment, planning future purchases, or just want to introduce yourself, we'd love to meet you.
Stop by, ask questions, check out the equipment, and let's talk about the solutions that best fit your department.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces, making new connections, and spending a few days with North Carolina's fire service community.
📍 North Carolina Firefighters' Association Conference 📅 August 12–15, 2026 📍 Raleigh, NC
Will you be there? Let us know in the comments; we'd love to see you! ... See MoreSee Less
"How do you decide which manufacturers to represent?"
The answer is simple: We don't choose products just because they're new or popular. Before we represent a manufacturer, we look for equipment that's dependable, built to perform, and backed by people who stand behind what they make.
Our goal isn't to sell you the most expensive option. It's to help your department find equipment that fits your needs, your budget, and the way you operate.
When we recommend a product, it's because we believe it's something we'd be proud to see on your apparatus. That's what "Built on Trust. Driven by Service. Focused on Relationships." means to us. ... See MoreSee Less
Why are more fire departments choosing battery-powered PPV fans?
When it comes to ventilation, every second counts. That's why more departments are making the switcTempest Technology Corporationation battery-powered PPV fans.
Here's why:
⚡ Fast deployment – Press a button and get to work. No pulling cords or fueling up.
🔋 No fuel to manage– Eliminate the need to store gasoline or worry about stale fuel.
🔧 Less maintenance – Fewer engine-related maintenance tasks mean more time focused on readiness.
🔇 Quieter operation – Better communication on scene without the noise of a gas engine.
🔄 Battery compatibility – Tempest offers models compatible with popular battery platforms, making it easier to integrate with the tools your department already uses.
Whether you're replacing an older fan or adding to your fleet, choosing the right ventilation equipment is an important decision.
If you're considering a new PPV fan, we'd be happy to help you compare your options and find the Tempest fan that's the best fit for your department. ... See MoreSee Less
This month, we're introducing Tommy Blanton, one of our sales representatives at Piedmont Fire Inc.
Tommy brings 35 years of fire service experience to our team. He began his fire service journey with Ellenboro Fire Department in 1984 as a volunteer before joining Rutherfordton Fire Department as a career firefighter in 1988. Throughout his career, he served as a firefighter, captain, assistant chief, and ultimately spent 23 years as Fire Chief before retiring on January 1, 2020.
In January 2022, Tommy joined Piedmont Fire, where he continues serving the fire service in a new role.
When he's not traveling to visit departments, Tommy enjoys spending time with his wife, Sherri, and their two daughters, Rebecca and Mackenzie. Family has always been an important part of his life, and he values every opportunity to spend time together.
When asked what he enjoys most about working at Piedmont Fire, his answer wasn't about the equipment; it was about the people.
"The one thing I missed after retiring was the camaraderie. Working at Piedmont has allowed me to continue building relationships with firefighters. Whether it's a department I've known for years or one I'm visiting for the first time, there's a connection in the fire service that's hard to describe, and I truly enjoy being a part of it."
One thing Tommy says customers are often surprised by is how quickly our team responds.
"Customer service is our priority. Whether someone needs a quote or has a question, we do our best to respond quickly because we know your time is valuable."
His advice for departments purchasing new equipment is simple:
Do your homework!
"Price matters, but don't let it be the only deciding factor. Focus on firefighter safety, ergonomics, durability, and finding equipment that's the best fit for your department. When you make an investment, you should feel confident in the equipment you're putting into service."
Looking back over more than three decades in the fire service, Tommy believes one of the biggest changes has been the industry's increased focus on firefighter safety and not just on the fireground, but for the years that follow. From advancements in PPE and SCBA design to equipment that reduces firefighter fatigue and exposure risks, protecting firefighters today means thinking about their health decades into the future.
When it comes to equipment, Tommy encourages every department to take a closer look at their turnout gear.
"I thought I knew turnout gear until I came to Piedmont Fire. I quickly realized there was so much more to learn. Today's gear is designed with firefighter protection, comfort, and long-term health in mind. Every department should take the time to evaluate whether their PPE still meets the needs of the firefighters wearing it."
We're proud to have Tommy on the Piedmont Fire team and grateful for the experience, knowledge, and commitment he brings to the departments we serve every day. ... See MoreSee Less
When your department purchases equipment, you're not just buying a product; you deserve knowledgeable support before and after the sale.
At Piedmont Fire, we believe in building relationships with the departments we serve. That means answering questions, helping you find the right solution, and being available when you need us.
We appreciate every department that chooses to shop local and support our small business.
Thank You, Raleigh!
A big thank you to everyone who stopped by to visit us at the SAFRE Conference this week.
We always enjoy the opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, meet new departments, and talk about the challenges and goals you're working toward. Conversations like these are what make conferences so valuable.
Whether you stopped by to ask a question, check out equipment, or simply introduce yourself, we truly appreciate you taking the time to connect with our team.
Thank you to the SAFRE for hosting another great conference, and thank you to everyone who made us feel so welcome.
If we didn't get a chance to talk or if you have more questions after the conference, don't hesitate to reach out. We're always here to help.
We look forward to seeing you again soon! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
We’re Here! 👋
We’re here and ready to see you! 🚒
If you’re at the conference, stop by and say hello to the Piedmont Fire team. Come check out the equipment, talk shop, ask questions, or just catch up with us.
📍 Come find us and let’s talk fire service!
We’re looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and meeting some new ones.
See you there! 👋🔥 ... See MoreSee Less
1 CommentComment on Facebook
I tried to see Phillip but he walked away and didn't come back while I was around.
**💡 Did You Know?**
Fire hose can look perfectly fine on the outside while still developing wear over time from use, age, heat exposure, and internal stress.
That's why routine hose testing and inspections are so important. They help identify potential issues before they become a problem on the fireground and ensure your equipment is ready when you need it most.
If testing reveals it's time for replacement, Piedmont Fire offers trusted hose solutSnap-tite Hose-tite Hose to help keep your department prepared.
Have questions about hose selection or replacement? Our team is always happy to help. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
We're Headed to Raleigh! 🚒
The Piedmont Fire team is excited to be attending the SAFRE Conference in Raleigh August 12–15!
Conferences are one of our favorite opportunities to connect with the firefighters and departments we serve. Whether you're exploring new equipment, planning future purchases, or just want to introduce yourself, we'd love to meet you.
Stop by, ask questions, check out the equipment, and let's talk about the solutions that best fit your department.
We look forward to seeing familiar faces, making new connections, and spending a few days with North Carolina's fire service community.
📍 North Carolina Firefighters' Association Conference
📅 August 12–15, 2026
📍 Raleigh, NC
Will you be there? Let us know in the comments; we'd love to see you! ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Behind Piedmont
One question we get asked from time to time is:
"How do you decide which manufacturers to represent?"
The answer is simple: We don't choose products just because they're new or popular.
Before we represent a manufacturer, we look for equipment that's dependable, built to perform, and backed by people who stand behind what they make.
Our goal isn't to sell you the most expensive option. It's to help your department find equipment that fits your needs, your budget, and the way you operate.
When we recommend a product, it's because we believe it's something we'd be proud to see on your apparatus.
That's what "Built on Trust. Driven by Service. Focused on Relationships." means to us. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
Why are more fire departments choosing battery-powered PPV fans?
When it comes to ventilation, every second counts. That's why more departments are making the switcTempest Technology Corporationation battery-powered PPV fans.
Here's why:
⚡ Fast deployment – Press a button and get to work. No pulling cords or fueling up.
🔋 No fuel to manage– Eliminate the need to store gasoline or worry about stale fuel.
🔧 Less maintenance – Fewer engine-related maintenance tasks mean more time focused on readiness.
🔇 Quieter operation – Better communication on scene without the noise of a gas engine.
🔄 Battery compatibility – Tempest offers models compatible with popular battery platforms, making it easier to integrate with the tools your department already uses.
Whether you're replacing an older fan or adding to your fleet, choosing the right ventilation equipment is an important decision.
If you're considering a new PPV fan, we'd be happy to help you compare your options and find the Tempest fan that's the best fit for your department. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook
👋 Meet the Team: Tommy Blanton
This month, we're introducing Tommy Blanton, one of our sales representatives at Piedmont Fire Inc.
Tommy brings 35 years of fire service experience to our team. He began his fire service journey with Ellenboro Fire Department in 1984 as a volunteer before joining Rutherfordton Fire Department as a career firefighter in 1988. Throughout his career, he served as a firefighter, captain, assistant chief, and ultimately spent 23 years as Fire Chief before retiring on January 1, 2020.
In January 2022, Tommy joined Piedmont Fire, where he continues serving the fire service in a new role.
When he's not traveling to visit departments, Tommy enjoys spending time with his wife, Sherri, and their two daughters, Rebecca and Mackenzie. Family has always been an important part of his life, and he values every opportunity to spend time together.
When asked what he enjoys most about working at Piedmont Fire, his answer wasn't about the equipment; it was about the people.
"The one thing I missed after retiring was the camaraderie. Working at Piedmont has allowed me to continue building relationships with firefighters. Whether it's a department I've known for years or one I'm visiting for the first time, there's a connection in the fire service that's hard to describe, and I truly enjoy being a part of it."
One thing Tommy says customers are often surprised by is how quickly our team responds.
"Customer service is our priority. Whether someone needs a quote or has a question, we do our best to respond quickly because we know your time is valuable."
His advice for departments purchasing new equipment is simple:
Do your homework!
"Price matters, but don't let it be the only deciding factor. Focus on firefighter safety, ergonomics, durability, and finding equipment that's the best fit for your department. When you make an investment, you should feel confident in the equipment you're putting into service."
Looking back over more than three decades in the fire service, Tommy believes one of the biggest changes has been the industry's increased focus on firefighter safety and not just on the fireground, but for the years that follow. From advancements in PPE and SCBA design to equipment that reduces firefighter fatigue and exposure risks, protecting firefighters today means thinking about their health decades into the future.
When it comes to equipment, Tommy encourages every department to take a closer look at their turnout gear.
"I thought I knew turnout gear until I came to Piedmont Fire. I quickly realized there was so much more to learn. Today's gear is designed with firefighter protection, comfort, and long-term health in mind. Every department should take the time to evaluate whether their PPE still meets the needs of the firefighters wearing it."
We're proud to have Tommy on the Piedmont Fire team and grateful for the experience, knowledge, and commitment he brings to the departments we serve every day. ... See MoreSee Less
2 CommentsComment on Facebook
I know that guy!! Munchkins forever!!! (He will know what that means)
Great guy!
When your department purchases equipment, you're not just buying a product; you deserve knowledgeable support before and after the sale.
At Piedmont Fire, we believe in building relationships with the departments we serve. That means answering questions, helping you find the right solution, and being available when you need us.
We appreciate every department that chooses to shop local and support our small business.
Thank you for trusting Piedmont Fire. ... See MoreSee Less
0 CommentsComment on Facebook