Lifesaving news and insights from the frontlines | | |
Welcome to Inside Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services, our quarterly newsletter! Each issue of this revamped 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.
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Summer is here, Gwinnett!
As your Fire Chief, my top priority is your safety. With the season’s fun comes unique risks. We're kicking off a summer safety series focused on fire preparedness, following several tragic house fires this year. Even one is too many. Stay tuned for tips to help protect your family at home and outdoors. Remember, Georgia heat can be deadly. I'm excited to introduce you to our dedicated medical directors who will share their expertise on signs of heat stroke and fireworks safety as Independence Day approaches.
With 28 years of experience in this industry, I've had the privilege of serving in various roles, like health and safety officer, operations chief, and deputy fire chief. I truly believe that strong partnerships and teamwork are key to ensuring our community's safety and well-being. Please take advantage of the Fire and Life Safety Community programs that we offer.
Let's work together to make it a safe summer! Thank you for being proactive about safety.
– Chief Fred Cephas
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Home Fire Prevention: Protecting your home and loved ones
This year, we've seen firsthand the devastating impact of home fires, with some families losing everything and, tragically, even loved ones.
Many of these fires could have been prevented, often stemming from grilling and cooking accidents. While some events like lightning strikes are beyond our control, we want to empower you with the knowledge and tools to protect your home and loved ones. That’s why we offer free Home Safety Surveys to help prevent fires and injuries. During your appointment, we’ll check smoke alarms, share cooking safety tips, review your fire escape plan, and more. Watch the video below to learn more about our Home Safety Surveys.
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And remember, smoke alarms are your first line of defense in a fire. Make sure yours are ready to alert by following these guidelines:
- Test alarms monthly
- Change batteries twice a year
- Keep alarms dust-free
- Replace units every 10 years
Contact one of our fire educators to schedule your Home Safety Survey today by calling 678.518.4845. Visit GwinnettSafety411.com for more safety tips.
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Meet Gwinnett’s medical directors!
Did you know that Gwinnett County has two medical directors who provide expertise and oversight for our Emergency Medical Services operations and training?
We’re grateful for the leadership of Dr. Patrick McDougal and Dr. Neha Verma. In the following video, they explain how their roles support our department’s growth.
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Fireworks Safety: Think before you light
Fireworks will soon light up the skies across Gwinnett County on Independence Day. To enjoy this beloved tradition safely and responsibly, it's important to follow local laws and take proper safety precautions.
Gwinnett Fire and Emergency Services and Gwinnett Police want to ensure everyone has a fun and safe time. This means being mindful of both the County's noise ordinance and firework safety. Georgia law permits the use of consumer fireworks on certain days and times.
In Gwinnett County, consumer fireworks can be used on July 3 and July 4 between 10:00am and 11:59pm.
Additionally, fireworks can be used from midnight to 1:00am on January 1.
Always remember to prioritize safety:
- Never let children handle fireworks.
- Follow directions for each device.
- Use far from homes, dry grass, and flammables.
- Have a bucket of water or hose ready.
- Light one firework, then move away quickly.
- Soak spent fireworks in water before discarding.
- Use sparklers with caution as they burn extremely hot; consider safer alternatives like glow sticks for kids.
In the following video, our County medical directors discuss important safety tips and how to handle burn injuries.
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Beat the heat this summer
Summer is here, bringing sunshine, high temperatures, and the need to stay alert about heat-related risks. To help you and your loved ones stay safe, keep these heat safety tips in mind:
- Stay hydrated
- Wear light, loose clothing
- Avoid peak heat; use A/C spaces
- Use sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses
- Never leave kids or pets in cars
- Check on elderly and young children
- Protect pets with water, shade, and cool surfaces
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Know the signs of heat exhaustion and stroke — watch the video to learn more.
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Fall Citizens Fire Academy
Our fall Citizens Fire Academy is officially open for enrollment!
Get ready for a hands-on, behind-the-scenes experience with an opportunity to ride in a fire engine, spray a hose, learn how we protect the community, and how you can help promote fire and life safety in Gwinnett.
The deadline to apply for this nine-week course is August 11, so reserve your spot now!
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You may have seen this story on the local news, but if not, we’re proud to share it with you now.
On March 14, Matt and Michelle Forrester awoke to shouts for help and saw a car on fire between their home and a neighbor's. They tried to alert the unresponsive driver while calling 911, watching as flames grew.
Without hesitation, Matt ran barefoot toward the burning car to rescue the unresponsive driver. He worked quickly to pull the man to safety, just 15 to 20 seconds before the car exploded.
Ring footage later revealed the elderly driver, who has dementia, had been stuck for nearly an hour before his car caught fire. Thanks to Matt's quick action, a tragedy was prevented and the driver was unharmed. We proudly honor Matt and Michelle Forrester with the Distinguished Civilian Service Award — their bravery shows the power of caring neighbors.
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