HENRY COUNTY

Fire Section

Fire Section responds to all Fires, Rescues (extrications), and Special Operational commitments (Hazmat, Confined Space, Trench Rescue and Dive Rescues). Fire Section promotes and disseminates progressive equipment and tactics for Henry County’s growing needs in changes from rural to suburban housing. Fire Section also supplements City of McDonough Fire Department with an ongoing automatic aid agreement.

The Fire Section in conjunction with EMS, have implemented and maintained 16 Advanced Life Support (ALS) First Responder Engine Apparatus to supplement the ever increasing call volume of EMS providing the community with the highest level of first responder care available at this time. All fire apparatus have been upgraded to 5 large diameter hose, to better supply water on the ever increasing larger residence and business. Safety has also been added to all fire apparatus with Cab-Over Mirrors, for drivers to better see and not have as many blind spots on the large apparatus. (Both of these projects were funded by Grants.)

EMS Section

The Henry County Fire Department EMS Section is responsible for providing emergency medical care and transport to all of the citizens and visitors of Henry County, including the cities of McDonough, Stockbridge, Hampton, and Locust Grove. This is accomplished utilizing 14 advanced life support (ALS) ambulances, 16 ALS capable fire apparatus, as well as multiple first responding capable vehicles.

A medical response is sent to requests any for medical care and transport as well as any other call where a medical need may arise, including structure fired and hazardous materials responses. Medical responses may only be a single ambulance, and ambulance and a fire engine, or multiple ambulances, fire engines, and specialized apparatus. The number and type of units are dependent upon the type of call when the 911 center receives it.

Fire Prevention Bureau

The Fire Prevention Bureau contains the fire marshal, personnel for building plans review, fire code inspectors, fire investigators, and fire and life safety educators. This division plays a role in the construction of new buildings ensuring that the structures are built to meet or exceed today’s life safety codes as well as inspecting existing structures to ensure occupants are remaining within the life safety code. The Bureau also investigates the origin and cause of any fire that appears suspicious or criminal in nature and/or unlawfully set, or of which the immediate cause cannot be determined. Additionally, all community fire and life safety education is scheduled and coordinated by educators through the Fire Prevention Bureau.

Systematic inspections of schools, institutions, assemblies, and businesses are conducted by professionally trained and uniformed inspectors. These inspections coupled with pro-active public education programs are the backbone of effective fire prevention accomplishments. They are the most powerful factors in the reduction of major losses of life and property.

To Schedule a Fire and Life Safety Event, or to request free installation of a smoke alarm, Please contact:
Henry County Fire Prevention Bureau
Fire Safety Education
Lt. Wanda Sue Maddox
wsmaddox@co.henry.ga.us
770-288-6621

Assistant Chief of Training

The Training Division, under the direction of the Training Chief, conducts and coordinates all department training activities including but not limited to recruit training, fire suppression, emergency medical, technical rescue, officer development and other training programs as necessary to meet established state and federal mandates each year. The division is responsible for ensuring that all department members meet the requirements as set forth by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), Insurance Services Office (ISO), Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training, Georgia Department of Human Resources, and the internal requirements by the Fire Department.

This position is responsible for organizing, designing, implementing, and managing training and employee development programs for the Henry County Fire Department. This position may also serve as a Command or General Staff Officer when necessary on incident scenes. Listed are some of the major duties of this position: developing training goals and objectives in conjunction with Fire Department Senior Staff; organizes and develops training programs for Firefighters and EMTS; provides new recruits with an orientation program and is responsible for conducting and administering all training requirements and programs, including the operation of an assessment center for prospective recruits; Assists the Division Chief of Operations by providing FF/EMTs and FF/Paramedics with training courses and by assisting them in preparing for certification and re-certification requirements; Ensures all Fire/EMS personnel are properly certified by maintaining employee training/certification files and provides monthly reports to the Deputy Chief, and performs related work as required.

The goal of the Henry County Fire Department Training Division is to provide the highest quality training, instruction, and educational support to our members. This is intended to prepare our department to serve our community in the most efficient and effective means possible, and to ensure the safety of our citizens and personnel.

The Training Division is responsible for the following:

• Processing applications for new employees.
• Testing, interviewing and hiring new employees.
• Conducting recruit school for new employees
• Conducting EMT school for new employees.
• Developing a continuing education plan for all personnel
• Conducting Paramedic school.
• Providing “Academy Style” classes for continued education, to teach new skills, and to assist each employee with career development.
• Conducting Promotional processes for competitive rank positions.

Simply, we are mandated to make sure our personnel are trained. Georgia Firefighters Standards and Training Council and Georgia Department of EMS both require that we obtain a certain amount of training on an annual basis so that our personnel remain competent in their assigned certified positions. Above that minimum, it is a goal of the Henry County Fire Department to adhere to the training requirements set forth by the Insurance Service Office. In addition to Fire and EMS requirements there are several other competencies that require yearly training. Those include but are not limited to Basic Mandate Law Enforcement (LE), Hazardous Material, Tech Rescue, Dive Operations, and several others. These requirements are accomplished by:

• Providing a Continued Annual Training plan for yearly training.
• Encouraging individual and company training every shift.
• Hosting and delivering developmental classes for our personnel
• Keeping abreast of all training requirements.
• Maintaining for reference, a Master Course File of classes instructed within the HCFD.
• Maintaining complete comprehensive training records.
• Delivering the most meaningful and realistic training possible while ensuring personal safety.

Paramedic Instructor This position is primarily responsible for coordinating and presenting our in house EMT and Paramedic program. Amy McCullough is responsible for supervision of personnel assigned to training activities. In addition, she assists in instructing on-duty personnel in both basic and advanced EMS skills.

Amy McCullough Paramedic Instructor

Training Facilities

The Training Division offices are located at 664 Industrial Blvd. This facility hosts the offices for the Division Chief, Administrative Assistant, and the Training Captains. We have three class rooms available at this facility as well as a library, conference room, and a personnel training file room. Also located at 664 Industrial Blvd is our training ground. This area is approximately 1 acre devoted to the “hands on” training of our personnel. On these grounds is a drill tower, class “A” burn building, confined space simulator, SCBA maze, and props for Liquid Petroleum (LP) training. The Paramedic / EMS Instructor’s office was located at Station 5 on Elm Street in Hampton until mid 2010. At that location we have a class room, conference room and a supply area for EMS training. The Division will continue to support the classroom at Station 5 as well as the classrooms located at Station 10 on Upchurch Rd and at Station 11 on Flat Rock Rd. These classrooms are located in the second floor of the facilities and are used throughout the year by our personnel for in service classes as well as Academy classes.

The Henry County Fire Department Paramedic Program is accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (www.caahep.org) upon the recommendation of the Committee on Accreditation of Educational Programs for the Emergency Medical Services Professions (CoAEMSP) (www.coaemsp.org)

Honor Guard

It is the mission of the Henry County Fire Department Honor Guard to honor Fire service members, both past and present, and the United States of America with the highest degree of professionalism, dedication, loyalty, and dignity possible.

Organization:

Honor Guard Coordinator:

• Member of the HCFD designated by the Chief
• Keeps Chief notified of any upcoming activities and ensures all guard members are kept abreast of meetings and details.
• Keeps a current list of Support Personnel and Guard Members with phone numbers and addresses.
• Communicates with family members, funeral directors, and event coordinators in order to facilitate details and activities.
• Assist in acquirement of needed uniforms, supplies and other logistical items through budgeting and donations.
• Maintains and revises guidelines and operational procedures.

Assistant Coordinator:

• Member of the HCFD designated by the Chief
• Responsible for recruitment and orientation of new members
• Assist with in service training as well as helping member’s train for upcoming events.
• Shall be responsible for surveying area prior to detail in order to arrange placement of personnel and apparatus.
• Assist Coordinator with any and all assigned duties.

Shift Coordinator:

• Is a volunteered position approved by the Honor Guard Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator.
• Responsible for notification of assigned Guard members to advise them of meetings, funerals, training classes, and special duties.
• Shall be supplied with a current Guard contact list and keep an open line of communication with the HG Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator.
• Shall ensure all members have the proper uniforms.
• Shall plan and present training to assigned personnel.
• Assist HG Coordinator and Assistant Coordinator.

The Henry County Fire Department Honor Guard was formed in 1997. Currently consists of twenty-one Guard Members and multiple support service members. The Guard is comprised of Henry County Firefighters and exists to honor the lives, the courage, and the sacrifice of America’s public safety and military professionals.

Requirements

All members of the HCFD Honor Guard must adhere to the following:

• Must attend at least 35% of HG activities. The HG Coordinator will review a member’s participation every six months.
• If unable to attend an event the member shall notify his/her shift coordinator at least twelve hours prior to the scheduled event.
• Members will acknowledge that uniforms are property of the Henry County Fire Department and shall maintain a clean, neatly pressed, and properly fitted uniform.
• All members are required to adhere to the Personal Appearance Standard #6.09 located in the Henry County Fire Department Policy Manual.
• Failure to comply with these rules can result in the removal of the member from the Honor Guard.

Activity

The Henry County Honor Guard honors fallen public safety professionals and military veterans. Training and services provided are done on a voluntary basis by members of the Fire Department. The Honor Guard responds to many service requests for funerals, parades, and other various venues for flag presentations each year. The Henry County Honor Guard has also been selected three consecutive years to lead in the honors and flag presentation at the Georgia Public Safety Training Centers’ September 11th Memorial Ceremony. In addition the Honor Guard has attended The National Fallen Firefighter’s Memorial in Emmitsburg, Maryland for the last two years.

Membership:

Membership to the Honor Guard is open to any member of Henry County Fire Department. In order to become a member of the Honor Guard, personnel shall submit a letter of interest to the HG Coordinator through the Fire Department Chain of Command.

The HG Coordinator will keep a list of people wanting to join the Guard. It should be understood that membership in the Guard is voluntary. By joining the Guard the Member agrees to purchase basic uniform items through his/her regular uniform allotment.

Three of the most important contributions to having a successful Honor Guard are:

• Participation
• Dedication
• Dependability

Fire Service employees are encouraged to carefully consider each of these three items before making the commitment to being a member of the Honor Guard. Commitment is defined as a pledge or promise. Once the commitment is made the member must follow through.

Questions or comments?
Please email: Battalion Chief Damion Vaughan or call (770) 288-6600.

The Henry County Fire Department was started in 1974. Since that year the Henry County Fire Department has grown significantly and continues to grow. With growth in our future, the Henry County Fire Department offers excellent employment opportunities to qualified individuals on a non-discriminatory basis.

The Henry County Fire Department provides fire protection and emergency services to a population of over 193,000 residents over 331 square miles.

The Henry County Fire Department is continuously accepting applications for employment at the Henry County Administration Building located at 140 Henry Parkway, McDonough, GA 30253.

Minimum Qualifications

• Must be a United States Citizen
• Must be at least 18 years of age
• Must have a high school diploma or GED
• Must possess a valid Driver’s License
• Must not have a Felony Record-this will be checked
• Must have a good driving record (less than 10 pts.)
• Should be in good physical condition.

Preferred Qualifications

• NPQ Firefighter II
• EMT-I or Paramedic
• Associate Degree, Bachelor Degree, Fire Science
  Degree, and / or Other Related Degrees
• Positive Work Record

Beginning salaries are as follows:

• Firefighter I/Recruit: $36,693.33
• Firefighter II: $38,368.91
• Firefighter/EMT-I: $42,583.57
• Firefighter/Paramedic: $48,748.98
• Paramedic Support Firefighter: $48,748.98
• AEMT Support Firefighter: $38,368.91

Benefits

• Health / Dental Insurance
• Life Insurance
• Disability Insurance
• Accidental Insurance
• Retirement
• Paid Vacation and Sick Leave
• 9 Paid Holidays per year
• Uniform Allowance
• Annual Physical
• In-house EMT and Paramedic Programs

2020 Annual Report

This report is viewable as a PDF here.

Download

You may also down past annual reports below:

• 2008 Annual Report
• 2009 Annual Report
• 2010 Annual Report
• 2011 Annual Report
• 2012 Annual Report
• 2013 Annual Report
• 2014 Annual Report
• 2015 Annual Report
• 2016 Annual Report
• 2017 Annual Report
• 2018 Annual Report
• 2019 Annual Report

Citizen Fire Academy

The Citizens’ Fire Academy is an eight-week program designed to educate and inform citizens about fire and emergency services achieving a greater understanding of the inner workings of the Henry County Fire Department. The academy will be eight weeks in length, one night per week, on Thursdays from 6:00 P.M. until 9:00 P.M. Classes will be held at Henry County Fire Headquarters located at 110 South Zack Hinton Parkway in McDonough. The instruction includes practical demonstrations that all participants are encouraged to participate in. However, because of the voluntary nature of the program, physical limitations of applicants will not be considered a reason for exclusion from the academy.

The goal of the Citizens’ Fire Academy is to:

• Provide residents a basic understanding of the tactics and strategies of firefighting and rescue operations.
• Provide a greater understanding of the services the Henry County Fire Department is able to provide.
• Encourage academy participants to return to their families and neighborhoods and share their experiences. This will provide more safety conscious and informed citizens.
• Provide an enjoyable, interactive atmosphere in which fire department members and citizens can share information and concerns.

It is imperative that all participants understand that the Citizens’ Fire Academy is intended to be an informative experience to provide insight into how the fire department functions and what services they provide. It is not intended to train participants as firefighters or assistants at any fires. It is not the Academy’s intent to train participants to a level where it is safe for him/her to involve themselves in any firefighting activity.

How the Citizens’ Fire Academy Benefits Residents:

• Citizens and the Fire Department have an opportunity to work closely together
• Open lines of communication between community residents and their Fire Department are enhanced
• Citizens gain the ability to make informed decisions regarding controversial fire prevention issues they may face in their communities
• Citizen involvement with their local community and Fire Department is enhanced
• Citizens gain a better understanding of how their Fire Department works and develop a more safety conscious and informed community.
• Citizens become aware of the problems facing their Fire Department.

We hope the graduates of the Citizens’ Fire Academy become more aware and better informed about how the Fire Department operates, and will encourage friends, coworkers and families to join the Henry County Fire Department in this rewarding program.

Academy Schedule

The Academy will begin on March 22, 2018 and run for eight weeks, ending on May 17, 2018. Classes are held on Thursday evenings from 6:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m.

• Week 1: Fire Department Overview
• Week 2: Tour of Emergency Communications
• Week 3: Fire Behavior & Fire Extinguishers
• Week 4: Hose/SCBA/Search and Rescue
• Week 5: Fire Safety Education
• Week 6: EMS Training
• Week 7: Extrication and Technical Rescue Overview /Tools and Equipment
• Week 8: Final Class/ Questions and Answers/ Graduation

Entrance Requirements

Potential candidates for the Citizens’ Fire Academy must meet the following criteria:

• Minimum age of 18
• Live in Henry County
• No prior felony arrests
• No misdemeanor arrests within six months of the application
• Complete and return the signed application.

Selection Procedure

The Citizens’ Fire Academy students are selected by the Citizens’ Fire Academy (CFA) Committee through an application process. Class sizes are limited to sixteen students per session. All other applicants will be placed on a waiting list and will be contacted as vacancies become available.

For more information on the Citizens’ Fire Academy, please contact (770) 288-6641. Download and print the application by clicking here.

Fax the completed forms to (770)288-6776 or email tmitchell@co.henry.ga.us.

• ADDRESS OR SUITE NUMBER NOT POSTED: Applicable Code: Section 505.1, 2006 International Fire Code New and existing buildings shall have approved address numbers, building numbers or approved building identification place in a position that is plainly legible and visible from the street or road fronting the property. These numbers shall be Arabic numeral or alphabet letters. Numbers shall be a minimum of 4 inches high with a minimum stroke width of 0.5 inch.
• EXPOSED WIRING: Applicable Code: Section 605.6, 2006 International Fire Code Open junction boxes and open-wiring splices shall be prohibited. Approved covers shall be provided for all switch and electrical outlet boxes.
• HYDRANT OBSTRUCTED: County Ordinance Sec. 3-4-107.1. Obstructing fire hydrants. It shall be unlawful for any person to place building materials within fifteen (15) feet of a cistern or fire hydrant, or do any other act which would obstruct approaches to fire hydrants or cisterns by any member of the fire department. No person shall put any post or installation or structure nearer than twenty-four (24) inches to any fire hydrant. (Ord. No. 92-10, 12-1-92) Editor's note: Ordinance No. 92-10, adopted Dec. 1, 1992, added § 3-4-108. Inasmuch as there existed a § 3-4-108, the editor has included the new provisions as § 3-4-107.1. Applicable Code: Section 508.5.5, 2006 International Fire Code A 3-foot clear space shall be maintained around the circumference of fire hydrants except as otherwise required or approved.
• FIRE DEPARTMENT CONNECTION NOT VISIBLE TO APPARATUS OR OBSTRUCTED: Applicable Code: Section 912.2.2, 2006 International Fire Code On existing buildings, wherever the fire department connection is not visible to approaching fire apparatus, the fire department connection shall be indicated by an approved sign mounted on the street front or on the side of the building. Such sign shall have the letters “FDC” at least 6 inches high and words in letters at least 2 inches high or an arrow to indicate the location. All such signs shall be subject to the approval of the fire code official. 912.3 Immediate access to fire department connections shall be maintained at all times and without obstruction by fences, bushes, trees, walls or any other object for a minimum of 3 feet.
• COMPRESSED GAS CYLINDER NOT SECURED: Applicable Code: Section 3003.5.3, 2006 International Fire Code Compressed gas containers, cylinders and tanks shall be secured to prevent falling caused by contact, vibration or seismic activity.
• STORAGE WITHIN 30 INCHES OF ELECTRICAL PANELS: Applicable Code: Section 605.3, 2006 International Fire Code A working space of not less than 30 inches in width, 36 inches in depth and 78 inches in height shall be provided in front of electrical service equipment. Where the electrical service equipment is wider than 30 inches, the working space shall not be less than the width of the equipment. No storage of any materials shall be located within the designated working space.
• EXTENSION CORDS USED AS PERMANENT WIRING: Applicable Code: Section 605.5, 2006 International Fire Code Extension cords and flexible cords shall not be a substitute for permanent wiring. Extension cords and flexible cords shall not be affixed to structures, extended through walls, ceilings or floors, or under doors or floor coverings, nor shall such cords be subject to environmental damage or physical impact. Extension cords shall be used only with portable appliances.
• KNOX BOX or KNOX SWITCH NEEDED: Applicable Code: Section 506.1, 2006 International Fire Code Where access to or within a structure or an area is restricted because of secured openings or where immediate access is necessary for life-saving or fire-fighting purposes, the fire code official is authorized to require a key box to be installed in an approved location. The key box shall be of an approved type and shall contain keys to gain necessary access as required by the fire code official. 506.1.1 An approved lock shall be on gates or similar barriers when required by the fire code official.
• NO SUPPLY OF SPARE SPRINKLER HEADS: Applicable Code: Section 5.4.1.4, NFPA 25, 2002 ed. A supply of spare sprinklers (never fewer than six) shall be maintained on the premises so that any sprinklers that have operated or been damaged in any way can be promptly replaced. Section 5.4.1.4.1 The sprinklers shall correspond to the types and temperature ratings of the sprinklers in the property. A minimum of two sprinklers of each type and temperature rating installed shall be provided. Section 5.4.1.4.2 The sprinklers shall be kept in a cabinet located where the temperature in which they are subjected will at no time exceed 100 F.
• NO SPECIAL WRENCH AVAILABLE: Applicable Code: Section 5.4.1.6, NFPA 25, 2002 ed. A special sprinkler wrench shall be provided and kept in the cabinet to be used in the removal and installation of sprinklers. One sprinkler wrench shall be provided for each type of sprinkler installed.
• SPRINKLERS BLOCKED BY STORAGE: Applicable Code: Section 5.2.1.2, NFPA 25, 2002 edition Unacceptable obstructions to spray patterns shall be corrected. Section A-5.2.1.2 Obstructions to spray patterns include continuous or non continuous obstructions less than or equal to 18 in. below the sprinkler deflector that prevent the pattern from fully developing.
• EXTINGUISHERS OUT OF DATE: Applicable Code: Section 7.1.2, NFPA 10, 2002 ed. The procedure for inspection and maintenance of fire extinguishers varies considerably. Minimal knowledge is necessary to perform a monthly "quick check" or inspection in order to follow the inspection procedure as outlined in Section 7.2. A trained person who has undergone the instructions necessary to reliably perform maintenance and has the manufacturer's service manual shall service the fire extinguishers not more than 1 year apart, as outlined in Section 7.3.
• EXIT BLOCKED: Applicable Code: Section 7.1.10.1, 2000 Life Safety Code Means of egress shall be continuously maintained free of all obstructions or impediments to full instant use in the case of fire or other emergency.
• MULTIPLE LOCKS ON EXIT DOORS: Applicable Code: Section 7.2.1.5.4, 2000 Life Safety Code A latch or other fastening device on a door shall be provided with a releasing device having an obvious method of operation under all lighting conditions. The releasing mechanism for any latch shall be located not less than 34 in. (86 cm) and not more than 48 in. (122 cm) above the finished floor. Doors shall be open able with not more than one releasing operation.
• FIRE ALARM SYSTEM SHUTDOWN: Section 9.6.1.8, 2000 Life Safety Code Where a required fire alarm system is out of service for more than 4 hours in a 24-hr period, the authority having jurisdiction shall be notified, and the building shall be evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all parties left unprotected by the shutdown until the fire alarm system has been returned to service.
• SPRINKLER SYSTEM SHUTDOWN: Section 9.7.6, 2000 Life Safety Code Where a required automatic sprinkler system is out of service for more than 4 hours in a 24-hr period, the authority having jurisdiction shall be notified, and the building shall be evacuated or an approved fire watch shall be provided for all parties left unprotected by the shutdown until the sprinkler system has been returned to service. Sprinkler impairment procedure shall comply with NFPA 25, Standard for the Inspection, Testing, and Maintenance of Water-Base Fire Protection Systems.
• Personal Care Home Guidelines All applicants for personal care homes will need to notify Henry County Fire Department, regarding inspections and fire sprinkler system installations. All personal care home applicants within the RA zoning district of unincorporated Henry County that has more than two (2) guest/patients and that are not related by blood will need to have an approved NFPA 13R sprinkler system installed. Personal Care Homes and similar uses will need to contact the Henry County Fire Department for a fire inspection (770) 288-6600.

Many of the schools in Henry County, as well as outside the county, bring their children to the theater on field trips for fire safety education. The numbers of children that are being taught fire safety education in the county, at either their facility or ours, is tremendous. In the education section of prevention, the main goal is to remember, “If we respond to it, we need to prevent it!”

Explorer Post 190

The purpose of Post 190 is to provide young men and women the opportunity to learn about, and be exposed to the fire service. This is accomplished by conducting weekly meetings, and special training sessions, as well as participating in local/regional competitions, and station ride-alongs.

During regular weekly meetings, members will receive training, similar to that of a "recruit firefighter". Most training is hands-on, with limited time spent in the classroom. Post members will learn about the skills and techniques used by firefighters, as well as the tools and equipment firefighters use. Special training sessions are conducted as they become available, and include live fire drills, rappelling, extrication, and other activities.

Post 190 also participates in local and regional competitions as they become available, and are a great opportunity to not only showcase skills learned, but to network with other Posts and Fire Departments.

The ultimate goal of a Post member is to participate in ride alongs, where they can learn about the daily life of a firefighter. They will be assigned to a fire station, and participate in all aspects of station life, including training, and responding to calls on apparatus. It is important to understand that Post members do NOT take the place of an actual firefighter on an emergency scene, however, they may be allowed to assist in a limited capacity. This unique experience is unlike any other exposure you may get to the fire service.

Henry County FD Explorer Post 190 was chartered through the Boy Scouts of America in October 2004, and has maintained an active charter since. With an average membership of around 10-12 members per year, Post 190 has had approx 200 members in its history as of 2020. At least a dozen former members have been hired by Henry County Fire Dept, and at least twice that many have gone on to careers in emergency services elsewhere.

To be a member of Post 190, you must be at least 14 years old, but not yet 21. Except for graduates, you must be enrolled in school (public, private, or home), with passing grades in all classes. You must attend regular meetings, and maintain a good and positive attitude. There is a yearly registration fee that must be paid.

Post 190 conducts only one enrollment period per year, typically in the weeks prior to Labor Day. To be notified of when our enrollment period is, and where it will be, please contact jmccullough@co.henry.ga.us to be added to our mailing list. We will send e-mail notifications once our enrollment schedule has been set. You can follow us on Facebook for notifications also. Becoming a member is a 2 step process.
First, you must attend our "First Night" meeting. This informational meeting typically lasts about 45 minutes. Here, we will discuss what is expected of members, as well as what you can expect from us. We will discuss our training methods, extracurricular activities, and ride along requirements in depth. We will hand out applications, and have a Q&A session for anyone who still has questions. The following week you will participate in the second step, which is an interview. Post 190 advisors will conduct individual interviews to determine whether a potential member is suited for membership.

Cost & Fee's:

Post 190 strives to keep costs as low as possible. We have no monthly dues, but there is a yearly registration fee, paid to BSA, of approx $45 (as of 2020). This fee may change. Gear and uniforms will be discussed at the "First Night" meeting. Participation in competitions is not required, but for those who do, there will be registration fee's associated with each event.

Questions or comments?
Feel free to email: jmccullough@co.henry.ga.us or visit the Facebook page.

The Office of Insurance and Safety Fire Commissioner held the 23rd Annual Life, Fire & Safety Awards Luncheon at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center in Forsyth, Georgia.

The awards luncheon recognizes individuals and organizations that excel in fire safety areas of education and fire prevention. Winners of the statewide fire safety contest are also recognized for their outstanding achievements in essay writing and artwork.

Henry County had five students chosen to receive awards at this year’s luncheon. Henry County Fire Chief Bill Lacy was present to congratulate the winners. “These students are incredibly creative,” said Chief Lacy.  “They took a very serious topic, fire safety, and presented it in innovative ways.”

Fire Safety Tips Calendar Winner – September 2016
Cecelia McCarthy 4th grade Wesley Lakes Elementary School

1st Place Fire Safety Essay Winner
Brendan Carroll – 10th grade WoodLand High School - View Essay Here

2nd Place Fire Safety Essay Winner
Ryan Landers – 10th grade Woodland High School

NOT PICTURED:
Third Place Essay Winner – Damian Ekpoudom – 10th grade Woodland HS
Third Place Essay Winner – Mariah Truitt – 12th grade Woodland HS

History of Fire Prevention Week

Commemorating a Conflagration

Fire Prevention Week was established to commemorate the Great Chicago Fire, the tragic 1871 conflagration that killed more than 250 people, left 100,000 homeless, destroyed more than 17,400 structures and burned more than 2,000 acres. The fire began on October 8, but continued into and did most of its damage on October 9, 1871.

According to popular legend, the fire broke out after a cow - belonging to Mrs. Catherine O'Leary - kicked over a lamp, setting first the barn, then the whole city on fire. Chances are you've heard some version of this story yourself; people have been blaming the Great Chicago Fire on the cow and Mrs. O'Leary, for more than 130 years. But recent research by Chicago historian Robert Cromie has helped to debunk this version of events.

The 'Moo' Myth

Like any good story, the 'case of the cow' has some truth to it. The great fire almost certainly started near the barn where Mrs. O'Leary kept her five milking cows. But there is no proof that O'Leary was in the barn when the fire broke out - or that a jumpy cow sparked the blaze. Mrs. O'Leary herself swore that she'd been in bed early that night, and that the cows were also tucked in for the evening.

But if a cow wasn't to blame for the huge fire, what was? Over the years, journalists and historians have offered plenty of theories. Some blamed the blaze on a couple of neighborhood boys who were near the barn sneaking cigarettes. Others believed that a neighbor of the O'Leary's may have started the fire. Some people have speculated that a fiery meteorite may have fallen to earth on October 8, starting several fires that day - in Michigan and Wisconsin, as well as in Chicago.

The Biggest Blaze That Week

While the Great Chicago Fire was the best-known blaze to start during this fiery two-day stretch, it wasn't the biggest. That distinction goes to the Peshtigo Fire, the most devastating forest fire in American history. The fire, which also occurred on October 8th, 1871, and roared through Northeast Wisconsin, burning down 16 towns, killing 1,152 people, and scorching 1.2 million acres before it ended.

Historical accounts of the fire say that the blaze began when several railroad workers clearing land for tracks unintentionally started a brush fire. Before long, the fast-moving flames were whipping through the area 'like a tornado,' some survivors said. It was the small town of Peshtigo, Wisconsin that suffered the worst damage. Within an hour, the entire town had been destroyed.

Fight Decades of Fire Prevention

Those who survived the Chicago and Peshtigo fires never forgot what they'd been through; both blazes produced countless tales of bravery and heroism. But the fires also changed the way that firefighters and public officials thought about fire safety. On the 40th anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire, the Fire Marshals Association of North America (today known as the International Fire Marshals Association), decided that the anniversary of the Great Chicago Fire should henceforth be observed not with festivities, but in a way that would keep the public informed about the importance of fire prevention. The commemoration grew incrementally official over the years.

In 1920, President Woodrow Wilson issued the first National Fire Prevention Day proclamation, and since 1922, Fire Prevention Week has been observed on the Sunday through Saturday period in which October 9 falls. According to the National Archives and Records Administration's Library Information Center, Fire Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on record. The President of the United States has signed a proclamation proclaiming a national observance during that week every year since 1925.

Below you will find helpful information regarding fire safety, fire prevention, etc.

	"Before the Fire" PDF | English
	"After the Fire" PDF | English
	"Despues del Incendio" PDF | Espanol
	Arson Video Watch an important video, by the Georgia Insurance Information Service, regarding rewards for arson information in Henry County. Click to watch video
	Sensational Kudos The Henry County Fire Department announces their 2008 Sensational Kudos. You will need Adobe Acrobat Reader to open this file. Click to read

Helpful Links

• Department of Homeland Security
• Federal Emergency Management Agency
• Georgia Emergency Management Agency
• Georgia Firefighters Burn Foundation
• Georgia Forestry Commission
• Georgia Mutual Aid Group
• Henry County C.E.R.T.
• Henry County Emergency Communications 911
• Henry County Medical Center
• Henry County Pandemic Preparedness
• Henry County Police Department
• Henry County Sheriff's Office
• International Association Fire Chiefs
• International Association Firefighters
• National Fire Academy USFA

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  Summer Fire/EMS Safety

  Grilling/Barbecue Grills

  • Grill outdoors
  • Once lit, stay with it!
  • Keep children away from grilling area

  Charcoal Grills

  • Only use starter fluid
  • Use limited amount
  • Soak coals in water before discarding
  • Leave grill away from home until completely cool

  Gas Grills

  • Store gas cylinder outside away from structures
  • Turn off valves when not in use
  • Check frequently for leaks in connections –use soap and water mix
  • When purchasing look for mark of independent testing laboratory
  • Always follow manufacturer’s instructions

  Fireworks

  • Leave any area where amateurs are using fireworks
  • Attend outdoor public displays put on by professionals

  Camping/Campfires

  • Pitch (flame retardant) tent away from campfire
  • Build campfire downwind, away from tent
  • Use battery powered heating and lighting inside the tent or any other enclosed area, as opposed to liquid-fueled heaters and lanterns.
  • Pour water or dirt over campfire before leaving campsite or going to sleep

  Using Gasoline

  • Always store outside home
  • Store in approved and well marked containers
  • Only store small amounts
  • Store away from any heat source or flame
  • Only use as a motor fuel only
  • Never store in a vehicle
  • Move equipment away from any spillage before starting engine
  • Turn off equipment and allow to cool before re-fueling

  Boating

  • Shut down motor before fueling
  • Be sure fueling nozzle is grounded to the fuel intake
  • Do not fill to capacity-leave room for expansion
  • Wipe up spills and check the bilge for fuel leakage and odors
  • After fueling and before starting motor, ventilate with the blower for at least four minutes.
  • Only use portable stoves and heater specifically designed for marine use
  • Keep a marine fire extinguisher on board at all times

  Pools

  • Store and use pool chemicals according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.
  • Always store outside and away from the home, any heat source or flame
  • Actively supervise your children around water at all times, and have a phone nearby to call for help in an emergency.
  • Make sure your pool has four-sided fencing and a self-closing, self-latching gate to prevent a child from wandering into the pool area unsupervised. In addition, hot tubs should be covered and locked when not in use.
  • Install a door alarm, a window alarm or both to alert you if a child wanders into the pool area unsupervised.
  • From the start, teach children to never go near or in water without an adult present.
  • Enroll your child in swimming lessons after age 4 – typically the earliest age when they are likely to practice and retain information. Teach children how to tread water, float and stay by the shore.
  • Learn CPR and know how to respond in water emergencies.
  • Warn your children about the dangers of drain entanglement and entrapment and teach them to never play or swim near drains or suction outlets.
  • Never swim in a pool or hot tub that has a broken, loose or missing drain cover.
  • Install protection to prevent entrapment if you own a pool or hot tub.

  Heat Injuries

  • Sunburns
  • Heat Cramps
  • Heat Exhaustion
  • Heat Syncope
  • Heat Stroke

  To prevent heat injuries:

  • Increase your intake of non-alcoholic, non-carbonated, caffeine free beverages such as water, clear juices, and sports beverages.
  • Wear clothing that is light in color and loose fitting.
  • Use sunscreen before going out into the sun
  • Avoid the outdoors during extreme heat and stay out of the sun.
  • Stay in air-conditioned environments when possible.
  • Check on elderly-they are especially susceptible to heat related injuries.
  • Reduce outdoor activity in the heat of the day.

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  Below you will find some helpful safety information as well as a few home safety related checklists.

  • Family's Fire Safety Checklist
  • Family's Fire Safety Checklist (Spanish)
  • If Fire Happens (Brochure)
  • College Campus Fire Safety
  • Candle Safety Tips
  • Christmas Tree Safety
  • Clothes Dryer Safety
  • Cooking Safety
  • Carbon Monoxide Safety
  • Electrical Safety Tips
  • Emergency Supplies Kit Checklist
  • Escape Planning Tips
  • Family Emergency Plan Form
  • Fireworks Safety Tips
  • Gel Fuel Warning
  • Generator Safety
  • Grilling Safety Tips
  • Halloween Safety Tips
  • Heating Safety
  • High-Rise Apartment & Condominium Safety
  • Home Fire Sprinklers
  • Home Safety for People with Disabilities
  • Hotel & Motel Safety
  • Lightning Safety
  • Scald Prevention Safety Tips
  • Smoke Alarms Safety Tips
  • Smoke Alarms for People who are Deaf or Hard of Hearing
  • Smoking & Home Fire Safety
  • Thanksgiving Safety
  • Water Safety
  • Winter Holiday Safety

35 Frances Ward Drive
Locust Grove, GA 30248