Horry County firefighters among nation’s fittest

CONWAY, S.C. (AP) — The American Heart Association says Horry County firefighters are among the healthiest in the country.

The organization awarded the county fire service its Platinum Award on Tuesday, making it the only fire department in the country to win the distinction. About 100 employers around the country have been given platinum status by the heart association.

The group defines fit-friendly employers as those that champion the health of their workers through incentives like healthy eating options and providing chances for physical activity.

Horry County Fire Rescue Chief Garry Alderman says the award is especially important because the number one cause of death among fire fighters is heart trouble.