Elrod Named Pickens' New Fire Chief

The new Chief of the Pickens Fire Department is a familiar face.

On Monday Pickens City Council unanimously approved hiring Chris Elrod, the department's Training Captain, as the new Fire Chief. Elrod takes over from the retiring David Porter.

Elrod has been in the fire service for 11 years.

He began his career as a volunteer with the Pickens Fire Department.

“Within two years, I was promoted to part-time,” Elrod said.

After serving as a firefighter/paramedic with the Clemson University Fire Department, Elrod returned to the Pickens Fire Department as Training Captain in 2006.

“I consider it a great honor to be promoted to the Chief position of the City of Pickens Fire Department,” Elrod said. “It is a great feeling of achievement to progress through the ranks starting with a Volunteer at this department to now being the Chief. I look forward to the challenges ahead as we begin to transition to a City-only Fire Department.

“This Department has an exceptional group of firefighters that are willing to serve their community,” he continued. “I would like to thank each member of the Fire Department for the support they have already shown me and the confidence the leaders of this City have entrusted in me.”

Councilman Patrick Lark told Elrod his decision to approve his promotion was heavily influenced by Elrod's previous work with “financials and legwork” at the fire department.

“I was just impressed with your initiative and work ethic,” Lark said. “I'm proud and looking forward to what you're going to do for us in days to come.”

Elrod begins his new duties today.