| Clay County Fire & Rescue operates 7 stations, each equipped with an engine and tender (tanker), and we currently have approximately 60 volunteers serving the county. Our current staffing and apparatus levels recently helped improve the insurance rating for most county residents.
Our goal is always to save lives first and property whenever conditions safely allow. Recent fires at Buckhorn Sawmill and Clay’s Corner are examples where crews were able to stop the fire and limit damage.
Unfortunately, modern fires burn faster than ever due to plastics, synthetic furnishings, and lightweight construction materials. In many cases, a fire can reach unsurvivable and unsalvageable conditions within minutes.
At both fires yesterday, firefighters were on scene within 5 minutes of dispatch. Despite that quick response, both homes were already heavily involved on arrival. At that point, priorities shift to protecting nearby homes, controlling hazards, and preventing spread.
That said, additional paid staffing would absolutely strengthen coverage. While crews were handling the Brasstown fire this morning, responders were also managing a cardiac arrest, another medical emergency, and a gas leak elsewhere in the county. Calls for service do not stop because one incident is underway.
We are proud of the volunteers who respond quickly and work hard under difficult conditions. |
