SC firefighters here for competition, including Horry County's first all woman team by WPDE NewsChannel 15

Dozens of firefighters from across South Carolina are on the Grand Strand for a firefighter challenge as part of the South Carolina Fire-Rescue Conference.

In a roped off section of Broadway at the Beach, firefighters spent the day going through a series of activities, including running up four flight of stairs with a 45 pound hose load in tow. These drills resemble real life scenarios. Agility, strength, and endurance are important for all firefighters on the course and on the job.

"Run and hit a kaiser, which is supposed to mimic forcible entry or chopping ventilation in a roof and that weighs 165 pounds," said Lt. Stephen Schuessler with Myrtle Beach Fire Department.

To prepare for this type of an event, training is key. The firefighters are doing physical activity in full gear that adds an extra 65 pounds.

"We go to the Sheraton and climb 15 fights 3 times. There's certain days we have a course behind the station you know flipping tires," added Schuessler. He continued, "Being able to maintain. You know, fires aren't out in 15 minutes so you gotta be able to pace yourself and go on time after time."

"We just run through different scenarios of different people and different positions see who's best at what. We also hit the gym. It's all about strength and endurance," said Christine Berry with Horry County Fire Rescue.

She's part of Horry County Fire Rescue's first ever all female team. Group members have various backgrounds in physical fitness. They're focused on being accurate, strong, and quick.

"Trying to get our there and just show that we can do it too. Might take us a few minutes longer, but we can get it done." Berry goes on to say they are just as competitive as the men and love their jobs as firefighters.

The Scott World Firefighter Challenge will be held this October in Myrtle Beach for the second year in a row