Copyright 2024 by Forsyth County, Georgia

Fire Department

Command Staff

Jason Shivers

Division Chief, Technical Services
 

Jason Stover

Division Chief, Fire Marshal
 

Ron Fagan

Division Chief, Field Operations
 

Keith Pertschi

Division Chief, Training
 

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I do with my used sharps?

Per the CDC and FDA, (Georgia DNR EPD defers to federal level) sharps containers can be disposed of in the trash in Georgia, including health caregivers outside of a health care facility. They need to be completely sealed (preferably with duct tape) to ensure they don’t come open or pose a hazard once in the trash. They should NOT be recycled. Sharps should NEVER be thrown away loosely in the trash or toilet.

https://safeneedledisposal.org/states/georgia/


I have a question about my plan review, upcoming inspection or the County fire code.

How do I obtain a burn permit?

Information on outdoor burning regulations and permitting can be obtained by calling (770) 781-2180, or by visiting Outdoor Burning Regulations.

Does the Fire Safety Division service fire extinguishers?

No, there are several businesses in the area that perform this service. 

Are fire extinguishers recyclable?

Yes, if it’s completely discharged. Use the below link for the contact information of the scrap metal recycling center near you. It is recommended that you contact them first to see if any other modifications need to be made for them to accept it. 

Forsyth County Recycling Centers

How do I schedule the Fire Department to teach my business about fire extinguishers and fire safety?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com to schedule. 

Does the Fire Department fill swimming pools?

NO.

Does the Fire Department repair fire Hydrants?

Maintenance, repair, and testing of fire hydrants on county or city property fall under the purview of either the Forsyth County Water and Sewer Department or the City of Cumming Utilities. Hydrants located on private property are the responsibility of the property owner and are to be maintained by a qualified third party. 

How do I schedule a Fire Truck visit?

Fire truck visits and touch-a-truck events can be scheduled through our Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or emailing publiceducation@forsythco.com

Can I visit the fire station?

Families are allowed to visit fire stations during normal business hours- 9 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Have a group that wants to visit? Please schedule a time to come see one of our stations with our Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or emailing publiceducation@forsythco.com

Will the fire department come out and check my smoke alarms?

Please contact our Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at  publiceducation@forsythco.com  

How long do smoke alarms last?

Your smoke alarms last approximately 10 years. If they are older than 10 years than you need to replace them. Please contact our Community Risk Reduction Unit with questions at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Where should I have smoke alarms?

Forsyth County Fire Department recommends that you have smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside every sleeping area, and on every level of the home. Please call the Community Risk Reduction Unit with questions 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Does the fire department give away smoke alarms?

The Community Risk Reduction Unit offers free smoke alarms and installation to our lower income families and assistance for the elderly and those with mobility restrictions. Please contact them at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Does the fire department handle car seats?

Forsyth County Fire Department has certificated car seat technicians on staff. Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit to schedule at 678-455-8072 or publiceducation@forsythco.com

 **NOTE-Please do not show up at your local station.** 

How do I schedule a car seat check?

Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit to schedule at 678-455-8072 or publiceducation@forsythco.com.

Does the fire department give away car seats?

Forsyth County Fire Department’s Community Risk Reduction Unit has a limited amount of grant funded car seats that can be provided for low-income families. You must qualify for these seats. Please contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit for more information at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

How do I schedule the fire department to teach fire safety at my business?

The Community Risk Reduction Unit will be glad to come speak to your business. Please contact them at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

Do you have programs for kids?

Explorers- for students that have completed the 8th grade and are 14 years or older. 

Junior Fire Academy- for rising 7th and 8th graders. 

Please see the link for each of these programs or contact the Community Risk Reduction Unit at 678-455-8072 or email them at publiceducation@forsythco.com

10 Things You Must Do to Become a Firefighter

Our Mission

To protect lives, property, and the environment from all hazards through preparedness, prevention, mitigation and response.