Inside Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services: Spring 2026

Spring 2026

Lifesaving news and insights from the frontlines

Welcome to Inside Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services, our quarterly newsletter! Each issue of this publication will feature:

A message from the Chief
Highlights from recent incidents our crews responded to
Essential safety and prevention tips, and
An inside look at our companies, teams, and personnel

Thank you for subscribing and taking the time to learn more about the firefighter/paramedics who work tirelessly to keep you safe and equip you with the knowledge to prevent emergencies.

The Chief's Corner

I first want to recognize the professionalism, resilience, and teamwork demonstrated by our department over the past several months. From navigating winter weather impacts to responding to daily emergencies, our personnel continue to serve with focus, integrity, and a steadfast commitment to protecting lives and property throughout our community.

As we head into spring, we'll see increased outdoor activity, the potential for severe weather, and renewed home maintenance across our community. Spring also provides an opportunity to look ahead. As our community grows and the demands within our department continue to evolve, so does our responsibility to deliver consistent, high-quality service while remaining prepared for what’s next. By emphasizing training, prevention, and community engagement, we ensure that we're not only ready to respond, but also proactive in reducing risk and strengthening the trust we share with the residents we serve.

I am proud of the work being done across fire suppression, emergency medical services, prevention, training, logistics, and support functions. The strength of this department is built on collaboration, accountability, and the shared commitment of our people. Thank you for your continued service, professionalism, and dedication as we move through the spring season.

— Chief Fred Cephas

Lights and Sirens

Recent fire responses across Gwinnett highlight the importance of prevention

Over the past several weeks, our crews have responded to several significant fire incidents across the county, reminding residents how quickly fire conditions can develop in both apartment communities and single-family neighborhoods.

A late-night apartment fire in Norcross displaced 16 residents after heavy smoke was reported coming from a neighboring unit. In Lawrenceville, firefighters responded to a midday apartment fire after multiple 911 callers reported smoke and flames coming from a building. Earlier this year in Duluth, firefighters rescued multiple occupants from another apartment fire, helping residents safely exit while crews worked to control the blaze. In Tucker, firefighters responded to a house fire that ultimately destroyed five homes, demonstrating how quickly fires can spread when structures are located close together. Each of these incidents required a coordinated response from firefighters and emergency personnel to protect residents and assist those affected.

As outdoor activities increase in the warmer months, we encourage residents to remain mindful of fire safety both inside and outside the home. Activities such as grilling, using fire pits, or burning debris should always be done with care, particularly in areas where homes are located close together.

Keeping grills and open flames away from structures and dry vegetation, never leaving fires unattended, and fully extinguishing ashes and embers before disposal can help reduce the risk of fires spreading to nearby homes.

Residents can learn more about safe outdoor burning practices visit the Outdoor Burning information page.

Prevention 365

Training: Prepared to serve when seconds matter

Behind every emergency response is continuous training. Firefighters, EMTs, and Paramedics with Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services regularly train in advanced medical care, fire suppression, rescue operations, and emergency response techniques to ensure they are ready for any situation.

This ongoing commitment to training ensures our personnel remain prepared to respond to a wide range of emergencies, from outdoor fires and storm related incidents to complex medical emergencies.

Watch the video below to see how training helps keep our teams ready to serve.

Severe weather preparation

You know the saying: “April showers bring May flowers.” Well, in Georgia spring often brings an increased risk of thunderstorms, tornadoes, and flooding. Residents are encouraged to stay informed and prepared by:

• Understanding the difference between weather watches and warnings

• Identifying safe shelter locations within their homes

• Avoiding flooded roadways and never driving through standing water

Preparedness can help protect lives and property during severe weather events. For additional seasonal safety guidance and preparedness resources, visit Gwinnett Safety 411.

Preparing the next generation of safe sitters

Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services has been recognized as a 2025 Silver Level Safe Sitter Provider, an achievement awarded to programs that teach between 100 and 124 students each year. In 2025, our Community Risk Reduction educators trained 105 students, equipping middle school students with essential safety and childcare skills.

The Safe Sitter program teaches students how to respond in emergencies, provide basic first aid, practice safe childcare, and make responsible decisions while babysitting. This recognition highlights our ongoing commitment to educating young people and strengthening community safety.

Several classes are scheduled throughout 2026, providing families with multiple opportunities to participate. Each class can accommodate 35 to 40 students, so be sure to grab a spot! For more information visit GwinnettFireEducation.com or email FirePrograms@GwinnettCounty.com to register.

Neighbors in Red

Compassion in action: Firefighters recognized for patient-centered care

Firemedic Senior Will Brooks and Firefighter III Kadeem Ambrose are being recognized with the Vision Award for their compassion and professionalism during a medical call on January 31.

Med 20 was dispatched to assist Gwinnett County Police on a psychiatric call. Brooks and Ambrose spent nearly an hour building rapport with the patient to help facilitate the care he needed. Their patience and commitment ensured the patient received appropriate assistance.

Their actions were later commended by Gwinnett County Police and reflect the professionalism, teamwork, and dedication that define Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services. Firemedic Senior Will Brooks and Firefighter III Kadeem Ambrose were presented with the Vision Award.

Firemedic Senior Will Brooks pictured with Assistant Chief JeKerry Weaver.

Firefighter III Kadeem Ambrose pictured with Assistant Chief JeKerry Weaver.

Driving continuous improvement: Battalion Chief Adam Lane honored for distinguished service

Battalion Chief Adam Lane is being recognized with the Distinguished Service Award for his leadership, dedication, and commitment to continuous improvement within Gwinnett County Fire and Emergency Services.

Serving as the Continuous Improvement Battalion Chief and the department’s HIPAA Compliance Officer, Chief Lane has played a critical role in strengthening operational performance and safeguarding patient privacy. His recent completion of the department’s HIPAA directives marks a significant milestone that reinforces compliance and operational integrity.

Chief Lane’s professionalism and dedication continue to enhance the effectiveness of our department and reflect the highest standards of service and leadership.