Smyrna Fire Department 2025 Annual Report

SMYRNA FIRE DEPARTMENT

3. LETTER FROM THE CHIEF

4. MAYOR AND CITY COUNCIL

5. GUIDING PRINCIPLES

6. VISION IN ACTION

7. ACCREDITATION PROCESS

8.-9. SFD SPOTLIGHT

10-11. A HISTORY OF EXCELLENCE 12. ORGANIZATION CHART 13. SFD COMMAND STAFF 14. OUR SERVICE AREA 15. FIRE STATIONS

16.-17. SFD DISTRICT PROFILES

18. ADMINISTRATIVE STAFF

19. OFFICE OF THE FIRE CHIEF

20. BUDGET BREAKDOWN

21. DEPUTY CHIEF OF EMERGENCY SERVICES

22. DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

23.-32. RESPONSE DIVISION

Letter from the Chief

On behalf of the Smyrna Fire Department, I want to express our sincere gratitude for taking the time to review our 2025 Annual Report. We hope this report provides valuable insights into the wide range of services our dedicated team offers.

For over a century, the Smyrna Fire Department has been committed to providing exceptional, compassionate service to our community. As an all-hazards organization, we are dedicated to community risk reduction and emergency preparedness.

A YEAR OF GROWTH AND SERVICE

2025 was a year of continued growth, momentum, and measurable impact. Our team responded to more than 8,000 calls for service — including structure fires, vehicle accidents, and medical emergencies — while also reaching record levels of community engagement. At the same time, we strengthened and expanded our emergency management initiatives to better serve Smyrna residents and businesses.

As part of our ongoing commitment to public safety and community connection, several of our key programs continued to grow and evolve:

Smyrna Safe Business Program – This successful and expanding initiative equips local businesses with essential fire prevention education and practical safety strategies, helping create a safer commercial community.

Community Open Houses – Increasingly popular each year, these events welcome citizens to explore our fire apparatus, learn lifesaving fire safety skills, and build meaningful relationships with our firefighters.

Future Firefighter Program – A growing cornerstone of our recruitment strategy, this program develops a strong pipeline of future Smyrna Fire Department professionals while investing in the next generation of public servants.

INVESTING IN OUR FUTURE

We made significant investments in our department’s infrastructure and capabilities, including:

• Upgrading our apparatus fleet

• Renovating station common areas

• Enhancing staffing for our south end rescue, ensuring more reliable response times. These improvements will enhance our response times and overall effectiveness.

LOOKING AHEAD

As we move forward, we remain committed to providing excellent service while maintaining fiscal responsibility. We will continue to:

• Strive for excellence: pursuing continuous improvement in all aspects of our operations.

• Enhance service delivery: identifying innovative ways to improve our services.

• Prioritize community engagement: building strong relationships with our community.

We express our sincere gratitude to our mayor, city council, and city administration for their unwavering support. Together, we will continue to ensure a safer Smyrna for years to come.

Thank you for your continued support.

Brian Marcos

Fire Chief, Emergency Management Director

Mayor and City Council

The Smyrna City Council, comprised of an elected mayor and a seven-member council, is charged with providing effective municipal government consistent with the needs of the city and its citizens within the approved city budget.

As the city’s chief executive officer, the mayor sees that all laws, ordinance, rules, and regulations are properly executed. He is also in charge of general supervision, presides at Council meetings, and has the authority to convene the council in extra sessions.

The council adopts ordinances and modifies them as needed, determines city policies, sets standards, approves the budget, and sets the mileage rate as well as all fees and fines. It also hires and supervises the city administrator. Together, the mayor and council appoint members of various city boards and commissions. They are responsible for ensuring that the City of Smyrna operates properly.

To be recognized as a leader in community risk reduction, excel at developing our people, and build enduring partnerships.

Guiding Principles

We are an “all-hazards” organization with a focus on community risk reduction and an exceptional readiness to respond to emergencies. We save lives. We protect property. We improve the quality of life in our community.

Integrity

Service

Accoutability

Community

Commitment

Vision

Purpose Values

A Tradition of Excellence

Vision in Action

Recognized as a Leader in Community Risk Reduction

Developing Our People

Partnerships

SFD Accreditation Process

In 2025, the Smyrna Fire Department continued the advancement in the accreditation process by officially becoming Applicant status. During the Applicant phase, the department completes the Self-Assessment Manual, which contains over 252 performance indicators, organized into 11 categories, including but not limited to Fire Suppression, Health & Wellness, and Physical Resources. The Center for Public Safety Excellence (CPSE) states that pursuing and maintaining accreditation enhances community alignment, promotes quality improvement and supports data-driven decision-making.

Kelly Bastis is leading this effort as SFD’s Accreditation Manager, with Deputy Chief’s Eric Mohrmann & Dustin Davey, Division Chief Kenneth Durden, Battalion Chief Eric Farmer, and EMA Specialist Evan McBrayer serving as Category Managers for the Self-Assessment Manual.

The department can be of Applicant Status for up to 18 months, during which time a Peer Mentor is assigned to guide the department in completion of the Self-Assessment Manual, as well as reviews the completed Community Risk Assessment/Standards of Cover and Strategic Plan. Once completed and approved, SFD intends to submit documentation to become a Candidate for Accreditation.

In March of 2025, SFD members attended the CPSE Excellence Conference in Orlando, Florida to gain insights into the process and network with fire departments nationwide and internationally.

Chief Marcos unveiled SFD’s strategic plan to the city council. This comprehensive plan is a testament to the collaborative effort of the Smyrna community, the SFD risk assessment data, and the invaluable input of the SFD firefighters.

Battalion Chief Bower graduated from the inaugural CYP Cultivate Program, offered by the Cobb Chamber. The eight-month leadership and mentoring initiative is designed to empower young professionals to grow as leaders, excel in their careers, and forge meaningful connections within the community.

Members of SFD Command Staff attended the 2025 Firefighter’s Recognition Day at the State Capitol. This day is established by law and celebrates Georgia’s fire service community and recognizes the incredible work that they do every day.

This was a big year for Captain Sadowski! First, he was named the company officer section chair for the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs. This is a significant role of connecting members, working with the board, and driving the section forward.

Second, Capt. Sadowski was accepted into the prestigious CYP Cultivate Program offered by the Cobb Chamber.

EMS Director George received the prestigious EMS director certification from the Georgia EMS Association and Georgia Southern University.

SFD Spotlight

Lt. Faillo achieved the department’s FIRST Fire Officer (FO) designation through the Center for Public Safety Excellence. Pursuing this designation demonstrates a commitment to enhancing his leadership and operational skills.

SFD conquered the Fight for Air Climb Atlanta –

Fastest Overall TEAM!

Fastest Female!

Fastest Quick Dress!

Fastest Age Group (30’s)!

At a Smyrna City Council meeting, Eng. Luna read the proclamation honoring Hispanic Heritage Month. Chief Marcos introduced Eng. Luna saying “Luis Luna is a Campbell High School graduate, a licensed paramedic, a Firefighter of the Year recipient, and it’s my pleasure to introduce him to you as he translates this proclamation into Spanish.”

Capt. Sadowski and Lt. Faillo were recognized at the 2025 Georgia Fire Chief’s Conference in Savannah for the excellence, dedication to education, and training.

A HISTORY OF

The earliest records referring to a “fire brigade” in Smyrna date back to February 27, 1896 when the brigade was credited with battling a cotton warehouse fire in downtown Smyrna. Records reveal a number of attempts to organize a volunteer fire department, which was achieved in 1899.

In 1953, the city purchased it’s very first “new” fire truck in anticipation of providing a “regular”or paid fire department.

The City of Smyrna Fire Department opened its doors as a career/ volunteer department on May 4, 1954. The new department responded to its first call on May 5 and held an open house on May 15 to show off the new combination fire/police station.

1896 1953 1954

EXCELLENCE

The department would continue operating as a combination department until August of 1973 when the cadre of volunteers responded to their last call and the department transformed into a fully paid organization.

Rescue operations would continue to be performed by the local Civil Defense until it was finally disbanded on May 9, 1987. Rescue operations and emergency medical response duties were then assumed by the fire department.

The department now operates five stations with three engines, two truck companies, two rescue units, and a battalion chief vehicle, responding to nearly 8,000 calls each year with top-level pre-hospital care. In 2023, a second deputy chief was added to oversee administrative and emergency services, as the City of Smyrna celebrated its 152nd birthday, showcasing strong citywide collaboration.

1973 1987 2024

SFD Organization Chart

LT. EVAN MCBRAYER

BRIAN MARCOS Fire Chief/ EMA Director

ERIC MOHRMANN Deputy Chief Emergency Services

KELLY BASTIS Admin. Coordinator/ Accreditation Mgr.

DEPUTY DIRECTOR

KENNETH DURDEN Division Chief TRAINING DIVISION

BATTALION CHIEFS

EMA Specialist/Public Information Officer

PUBLIC INFORMATION OFFICER

DUSTIN DAVEY Deputy Chief Administrative Services EMA DIVISION SUPPORT SERVICES DIVISION JAMES PACE Support Services Coordinator BRYANT CLARK Logistics Technician

ADMINISTRATIVE DIVISION

MILLER Admin. Coordinator RESPONSE DIVISION

PREVENTION DIVISION

CAPT. TIM GEORGE EMS Director

ENG. BRETT ROBERTS Health & Safety Officer

JAKE BOWER A-Shift

KYLE O’BRYAN B-Shift

ERIC FARMER C-Shift

SFD Command Staff

BRIAN MARCOS

FIRE CHIEF/ DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

KENNETH DURDEN

DIVISION CHIEF OF TRAINING

ERIC MOHRMANN DEPUTY CHIEF OF EMERGENCY SERVICES/DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

JACOB BOWER A – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

DUSTIN DAVEY DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES/FIRE MARSHAL

KYLE O’BRYAN B – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

ERIC FARMER C – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

SFD Service Area

SFD District Profiles

City of Smyrna

SFD Administrative Staff

KELLY BASTIS | ACCREDITATION MANAGER

In 2025, the fire chief’s administrative coordinator was reclassified to the department’s accreditation manager. Ms. Bastis assists the fire chief with coordinating schedules, budgets, departmental operations and events. Ms. Bastis also compiles information for the annual report, department newsletters and social media, maintains confidential personnel information, processes worker’s comp claims and other incident reports. As the accreditation manager, Ms. Bastis manages the international accreditation process, overseeing the development and revisions of the self-assessment manual, creating and reviewing annual program appraisals, and serving as the liaison for the Center for Public Safety Excellence.

JAMES PACE | SUPPORT SERVICES COORDINATOR

The support services coordinator is responsible for managing fleet and facility service requests, processing station supply orders, scheduling annual maintenance, servicing personal protective equipment, and procuring resources to support department operations.

APRIL MILLER | ADMINISTRATIVE COORDINATOR

In 2025, the administrative assistant was reclassified to the departments administrative coordinator. Ms. Miller serves as the primary point of contact for the Smyrna Fire Department, handling open records requests, coordinating public engagement events, and welcoming visitors. Ms. Miller also oversees the life safety system permit process, maintains the commercial occupancy database, and provides administrative support to the Bureau of Fire Prevention.

BRYANT CLARK | LOGISTICS TECHNICIAN

The logistics technician is responsible for managing the hydrant inspection program, delivering station supplies, and assisting the support services coordinator with dayto-day operations.

Office of the Fire Chief

The Office of the Fire Chief is built upon four key foundations: the Health and Safety Section, the Office of Emergency Management, Administrative Services, and Emergency Services.

HEALTH AND SAFETY SECTION

Our Health and Safety Section is committed to the physical and mental well-being of our personnel. Our comprehensive health and wellness program focuses on enhancing firefighter strength, endurance, and agility through dedicated fitness programs and access to various resources. We also support mental health by providing access to counseling services, peer support programs, and a chaplaincy program. Additionally, we aim to minimize on-the-job injuries through extensive safety training and the recently established HSO Advisory Committee.

OFFICE OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

The Office of Emergency Management (OEM), a division of the Smyrna Fire Department, is dedicated to enhancing the city's resilience in the face of emergencies. The OEM leads the city through natural and man-made disasters by focusing on preparedness, response, and recovery efforts. This is achieved through the development and implementation of comprehensive plans and programs designed to mitigate the impact of emergencies. The OEM maintains an all-hazards approach, emphasizing community education, emergency response coordination, and a proactive stance in disaster preparedness.

ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES DIVISION

The Administrative Services Division (ASD) plays a critical role in driving organizational success. Key responsibilities include overseeing major departmental undertakings such as the strategic plan, continuous quality improvement initiatives, and maintaining our Insurance Services Office (ISO) 2 rating. Furthermore, the ASD provides strategic guidance to the Fire Prevention Division and Support Services Section. The ASD also actively manages the annual budget process, monitoring expenditures, and advising on budgetary priorities.

EMERGENCY SERVICES DIVISION

The Emergency Services Division (ESD) plays a vital role in enhancing our community's safety and well-being throughout the year. The ESD oversees training, emergency response services, and community engagement. It advises and directs on new hires, training, assignments, and the performance evaluation process.

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

The Smyrna Fire Department engages with its community partners, including:

• Southeastern Association of Fire Chiefs

• Georgia Fire Chief Association of Fire Chiefs

• Wellstar Health System Board

• National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) technical committee 915 for remote inspection

• Smyrna Area Council

• Cobb Chamber of Commerce

• Hispanic Chamber of Commerce

• Smyrna Public Safety Foundation

SFD Budget Breakdown

Response: $6,460,934.05

Administration: $1,051,265.08 Prevention: $677,569.16 Training: $339,405.52 Emergency

$140,513.81

$8,669,687.62

BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS:

• Replaced Engine 2 with 2025 Pierce Velocity

• Ordered replacement aerial

• Completed Knox Box upgrades

• Completed Station 4 back pad project

• Completed Station 1 restoration

• Upgraded iPads and field technology

OPERATING BUDGET HIGHLIGHTS:

• Frontline Mobile Health

• Reclassification of Administrative Services Coordinator to Accreditation Manager & Administrative Assistant to Administrative Services Coordinator

PERSONNEL:

• 9 firefighters hired

• 5 – projected to start January 5, 2026

• 3% market adjustment for all eligible employees (COLA)

Deputy Chief of Emergency Services

ERIC MOHRMANN DEPUTY CHIEF OF EMERGENCY SERVICES

The Deputy Fire Chief of Emergency Services performs functions in alignment with the vision and purpose of the Smyrna Fire Department and the fire chief. He develops and manages annual department budgets and collaborates with the fire chief to hire, train, assign, direct, supervise, and evaluate personnel performance. His area of focus is on, but not limited to, the Response Division, Training Division and Emergency Management.

• Ensures that critical data, process indicators, and outcomes are properly collected and used to inform improvement and decision making; develops and implements goals, objectives and performance measures.

• Monitors the status of department operations to ensure efficiency and effectiveness; resolves work problems and issues. Responds to questions and concerns from the Fire Chief, elected and appointed officials, department staff, members of the news media, and members of the public.

• Responds to emergency situations as needed. Performs the duties of the fire chief and director of emergency management in his absence. Develops and implements department policies and procedures. Performs related duties as assigned.

Deputy Chief of Administrative Services

DUSTIN DAVEY DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

The Deputy Chief of Administrative Services responsibilities include overseeing the Departments $8.6 million budget and providing executive oversight of the Fire Prevention, Administrative, and Support Services Divisions.

This position supervises department activities related to business administration, fleet and infrastructure, budget/finance, project management, data management, policy management, accreditation management and ensures that the city of Smyrna maintains (and works to improve) its ISO rating.

This position also serves as the fire marshal for the City of Smyrna.

SFD Response Division

The most visible part of our organization is the line operations personnel reporting through our Response Division. These are firefighters staffing the fire apparatus and rescue units who response to requests for services 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

The line operations personnel are divided into three shifts to ensure around-the-clock service to the community. Firefighters work a 24-hour shift, which starts at 7am with crews fully checking their equipment and vehicles to ensure readiness.

Battalion Chiefs

JACOB BOWER A – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

KYLE O’BRYAN B – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

ERIC FARMER C – SHIFT BATTALION CHIEF

SFD Response Division Response Services & ISO Rating

EMERGENCY MEDICAL CARE

Smyrna firefighters are trained and certified as emergency medical technicians (EMT’s) and paramedics. We respond with advanced life support capabilities to emergency medical incidents that occur in the city. With fire stations strategically located throughout the city, oftentimes firefighters are closer than an ambulance to a medical call, allowing firefighters to reach the scene of such a medical emergency sooner and initiate medical care.

FIRE SUPPRESSION

The department provides fire suppression for all types of fires that occur in the city. These include: structure fires (such as homes, businesses and industries), vehicle fires, grass and woods fires, and other types of fires that may occur.

TECHNICAL RESCUE

Smyrna firefighters are trained to provide all types of rescue in the city, including vehicle extrication, confined space rescue, low angle rescue, and other types of rescues that may occur.

HAZARDOUS MATERIALS

The department provides response to hazardous material leaks or spills. These may include transportation incidents that occur on the roadways or railroads, and fixed facility incidents at businesses or industries.

RISK REDUCTION

The department provides risk reduction services through pre-incident planning and conducting incident action plans on high-risk occupancies.

SMYRNA FIRE DEPARTMENT

2025 QUICK FACTS

• 16.16 square miles of coverage

• 57,747 residents

• 87 SFD members

• ISO Class 2

• 5 fire stations

• 8,234 emergency responses

• Maintain records for over 2,000 pre-fire plans

• Maintain records for over 2,492 fire hydrants

The City of Smyrna Fire Department is an Insurance Services Office (ISO) rated Class 2 “all hazards” response agency that responds to all types of emergency medical calls and fire incidents. ISO is an insurance industry risk advisory body which helps insurance carriers set appropriate premiums.

Our Class 2 rating, which is the second highest available ISO rating, may reflect favorable premiums for citizens and businesses of the city.

SFD Response Division Response Incidents

Fires

115 Total

• Structure: 18

Structure, vehicle, and other

• Vehicle: 15

• Brush/Grass: 28

• Other: 54

Misc. Calls

hazardous conditions, service, good intent, sever weather/natural disaster, special incidents, pressure ruptures, explosion, and overheat

Total Incidents

8,234

• Hazardous Conditions: 193

• Service: 1051

2,254 Total Rescue Calls

• Good Intent: 988

• Severe Weather/Natural Disaster: 10

• Special Incident: 12

• Emergency Medical Treatment: 2,933

• Medical Assist: 1,867

Emergency medical treatment and other

5,091 Total False Calls

774 Total

malicious and other

SFD Response Division Response Highlights

PERSONNEL

• Multiple members of the SFD received the state certifications from the Georgia Fire Chiefs Association to include Fire Chief Certification, Chief Fire Officer Certification and Company Officer Certification.

• A new Engine 2 was put into service.

• The 3rd installment of the Future Fighter Program was held in the Summer of 2025. This program is developed to work with individuals interested in the fire service. Participants are taught everything from interview techniques, physical fitness, and basic fire safety and education. Two of the participants are scheduled to be hired in 2026.

• At the World Police and Fire Games in Birmingham, AL, members of the SFD won gold, silver, and bronze medals in different events.

• In 2025, two firefighters successfully completed their yearlong paramedic school to successfully become nationally and state certified paramedics.

• During the 2025 Metro Atlanta Firefighters Conference, the SFD held its annual TIC class at The Yard.

• With 2 retirements in 2025, it led to two promotions of the rank of Fire Engineer.

SFD Response Division Response Highlights

COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT

• Throughout the year, the SFD could be seen at ribbon cuttings of businesses, touch-a-truck events, school visits, and holiday events like Easter egg drops, gelt drops, and lighting of the Christmas tree.

• The Smyrna Bike Team participated in numerous city sponsored events to include Drafts and Crafts and the Taste of Smyrna.

• The Smyrna Fire Honor Guard participated in multiple sporting events, such as presenting the colors for the national anthem at an Atlanta United soccer game.

• Two Community Open Houses were held, inviting citizens of Smyrna to learn fire safety, meet fire personnel, receive station tours, and see various demonstrations, including CPR and forcible entry.

• Collaborated with city departments for the city’s 153rd birthday celebration. The event has numerous food vendors and entertainment, including the bands Kool and the Gang and headliners, Fitz and the Tantrums. The celebration concluded with fireworks.

SFD Response Division Engine 2 Commissioning

SMYRNA FIRE DEPARTMENT – ENGINE 2 (2025 PIERCE VELOCITY PUMPER)

Engine 2 entered service in April 2025, representing the next generation of firefighting capability for Station 2. Built on a rugged Pierce Velocity chassis and powered by a 455-hp Cummins X12 engine, this pumper combines power, reliability, and modern technology to better serve the Smyrna community. Engine 2 delivers 1,750 gallons per minute via a midship Waterous pump and carries 500 gallons of water, ensuring robust flow and sustained supply for structural fire response. The use of a TAK-4 independent front suspension helps improve ride stability and crew safety — equally important when responding to everyday calls or major incidents.

With this new apparatus, Smyrna Fire Department reinforces its commitment to community safety, readiness, and modern fire suppression capabilities — an asset designed to deliver reliability, performance, and peace of mind to citizens.

SFD Response Division

Frontline Mobile Health

Frontline Mobile Health is a team and an organization that has merged military experience with the skill and dedication of their team members to build a platform with a singular focus: preventing the three leading causes of death among public safety workers– cardiovascular disease, cancer, and suicide, as well as delivering actionable medical intelligence to department senior leaders.

In 2025, the Smyrna Fire Department partnered with Frontline Mobile Health to provide annual physicals to all its personnel. A base assessment is performed that includes body composition, blood analysis, vision and hearing tests, and a behavioral health questionnaire. Along with the base assessment, on an annual rotating basis, the SFD will be evaluated through a cancer screen and then a cardiac test. After completing our first physicals, which in 2025 incorporated the cancer screen, some members were alerted to seek further evaluation with positive outcomes.

After a successful plan and implementation, the Smyrna Fire Department looks forward to a continued partnership with Frontline Mobile Health.

SFD Response Division

Fire Station 1 Updates

This year, Fire Station 1 had new engineering 4-fold doors installed.

The 4-fold door system offers several key benefits for the station:

Faster Opening/Closing Times: reduces response times by allowing apparatus to exit the bay more quickly.

Increased Durability: heavy-duty design is built to withstand high operational demands and weather conditions, reducing maintenance needs over time.

Enhanced Safety: doors open outward, keeping interior bay space clear and minimizing the risk of accidents or damage to equipment.

Improved Energy Efficiency: tight seals help maintain interior climate control, reducing heating and cooling costs.

Aesthetic Appeal: provides a clean, modern appearance that complements the station’s exterior.

These upgrades have significantly enhanced the station’s operational efficiency and long-term reliability.

SFD Emergency Management

BRIAN MARCOS FIRE CHIEF/ DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

EVAN MCBRAYER EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT AGENCY SPECIALIST

ERIC MOHRMANN

DEPUTY CHIEF OF EMERGENCY

SERVICES/DEPUTY DIRECTOR OF EMERGENCY MANAGEMENT

The Smyrna Fire Department’s Emergency Management Agency (EMA) is dedicated to advancing the principles of prevention, preparedness, mitigation, and recovery from natural and manmade disasters. Smyrna EMA works closely with all city departments, employees, businesses, and citizens as well as local, state, and federal partners to manage threats and hazards to the City of Smyrna.

Emergency Management’s mission is carried out by assisting and educating Smyrna stakeholders in hazard identification and prevention, disaster response training for personnel and the public, alerting the public for imminent hazardous events, as well as planning development and data collection for city decision makers. Smyrna EMA is dedicated to building a culture of resilience and preparedness in the community.

2025 HIGHLIGHTS

• Delivered the third Smyrna Safe Business program to eight local business leaders.

• Held annual Coordinated Response tabletop exercise with key city leadership

• Drafted response plans for flooding in the Riverview Landing area.

• Developed operational plans for city and local events such as the Smyrna Birthday event and the 2025 MLB All-Star Game.

• Monitored and managed multiple incidents including winter and severe weather, train derailment, etc.

SFD Bureau of Fire Prevention

DUSTIN DAVEY DEPUTY CHIEF OF ADMINISTRATIVE SERVICES

The Smyrna Fire Department’s Bureau of Fire Prevention (BOFP) division was established in 1970 after the city adopted its first fire prevention code. The bureau’s primary mission is to create a safer environment for our valued residents, the members of our business community, and everyone who visits our great city by actively influencing community risk reduction. This mission is accomplished through the enforcement of the state’s minimum fire safety standards and our locally adopted municipal codes. Deputy Chief, Fire Marshal Dustin Davey oversees this talented team of accomplished professionals.

BOFP Division

The BOFP team members are Administrative Assistant April Miller, part-time Fire Safety Inspector Lieutenant Brannon Whatley, Lieutenants Frank Romano, Jay Ratliff, Michael Benna, and Assistant Fire Marshal Tim Grubaugh. Captain Grubaugh manages the day-to-day operations of the Division. Chief Davey and Captain Grubaugh along with Lieutenants Benna, Ratliff, and Romano are certified fire inspectors, certified fire investigators, and are sworn peace officers having police powers as outlined by state law.

SFD Bureau of Fire Prevention

The primary functions of the BOFP include:

• Code compliance inspections through all phases of construction

• Review construction documents to ensure code compliance of proposed buildings and remodels

• Review business license applications

• Issuance of various permits

• Issuance of Certificates of Occupancy

• Conduct fire & life safety inspections of existing buildings and structures

• Ensure ADA compliance

• Conduct fire investigations

• Conduct new-hire background investigations

These efforts promote a fire safe environment through engineering, education, and enforcement.

2025 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

• We played key roles again in the Smyrna Birthday and Spirit Festival on October 4, 2025, including supervision of the fireworks operation & exclusion areas. The team was actively engaged in set-up inspections of the concert performance areas and crowd safety efforts throughout the event.

• The fire marshal’s office was recognized for fire investigation efforts resulting in conviction of several arsonists and overall team performance.

• As another effort towards community risk reduction, we co-hosted a community safety meeting with representatives of the Smyrna Police at Smyrna Grove.

• We continue to expand the use of our third-party inspection reporting program to passively identify life safety system deficiencies throughout the city in commercial occupancies. The reporting we receive includes fire alarm systems, fire sprinkler systems, commercial cooking systems, private fire hydrants, etc.

• In 2025, we improved our level of compliant fire safety systems across the city to above 93%. This far exceeds the national average of 75% - 80% (as reported by cpsc. gov).

SFD Bureau of Fire Prevention

FIRE INVESTIGATION

The Smyrna Fire Department’s Fire Marshals Office is charged with investigating the fires in the city which are of a suspicious nature, causes damage to city property, results in the loss of life, or causes injury to any person. In 2025 our team of State certified fire investigators conducted 20 origin and cause investigations. This was a 20% decrease compared to the 25 fire investigations performed in 2024, but still more than were performed in 2023.

2025 BOFP FIRE INVESTIGATIONS

SFD Training Division

The mission of the Training Division is to facilitate opportunities to meet continuing education and certification requirements set for the by the Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training Council (GFSTC), the Georgia State Office of EMS and the Insurance Services Office (ISO). The continual training efforts supported by the division ensure a competent, efficient, and effective emergency response organization. This division is staffed with three full-time training professionals who serve the unique needs of each department member.

KENNETH DURDEN DIVISION CHIEF OF TRAINING

TRAINING OBJECTIVES INCLUDE:

CAPT. TIMOTHY GEORGE EMS DIRECTOR

LT. JUSTIN TUCKER FIELD TRAINING OFFICER

• Support employee training and professional development at all levels of the organization and in all subject areas to enhance knowledge, skills, and abilities.

• Maintain training records consistent with industry standards.

• Administer the new employee orientation program.

• Support Fire and EMS certification/recertification process as required.

SFD Training Division 2025 Year in Review

TRAINING DIVISION

2025 began with implementation of the Annual Training Plan (ATP). The emphasis for the Training Division is to complete the ATP at 100% while maintaining a focus on compliance with national and state training standards, as well as initial and continuing education. The ATP is comprised of training that runs on a bimonthly basis, alternating between fire training and emergency medical training. Additionally, the training division partners with other departments within the City and outside agencies to provide emergency management and supervisor training as well as health and wellness and financial education.

FIRE TRAINING HOURS

All Smyrna Fire Department staff have a minimum requirement of 240 hours of training per year. Of those 240 hours, 24 must be structured training and 18 must be facility. In addition to daily company training, the Training Division facilitated a total of 122 hours of training: Facility training at “The Yard”, Pump Apparatus Driver Operator (PADO) class, Qualified Company Officer (QCO), Engineer Acting Officer in Charge and Metro Atlanta Fire Fighter Conference (MAFFC), where we hosted firefighters from all over the country teaching a fireground thermal imaging class that has sold out for the last 15 years.

RECRUIT TRAINING

The goal of the Smyrna Fire Department (SFD) is to always remain fully staffed. Natural attrition, retirements and approval for new positions meant hiring a total of seven new SFD staff members in 2025. These recruits received over 400 hours training in basic firefighting, hazardous material operations, structure fire control, interior search and rescue, basic life support, and emergency medical response before going on shift. Of these new recruits, three were trained in an “in house” recruit school and four attended the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC). All 4 graduated with honors and one received a perfect score, a first for GPSTC.

TRAINING FACILITIES

While the focus remained on improving the training ground and capabilities of the Smyrna Fire Training ground (affectionately called “the Yard”) through improvements and equipment upgrades. Considerable upgrades were made to emergency medical training equipment as well as the classroom area at station 3 where Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician (AEMT) classes are held. These additions include a new IV arm, and IO trainers.

SFD Training Division

Training Offered

COMPANY TRAINING

Company level training is conducted on shift by battalion chiefs, captains, and lieutenants. This is done on a shift level and must meet requirements outlined in training action plans that have been developed by the Smyrna Fire Department. This training represents new equipment, technologies, health and wellness and industry’s best practices. Company training is conducted monthly and will reference many of the subjects listed below.

FORCIBLE ENTRY

• Ground and aerial ladders

• Engine pumping scenarios

• Hose and nozzle operations

• Rules of air management

• FF Survival and rapid intervention Crews

• Escaping a hostile environment

• Technical rescue basics

• Vehicle stabilization

• Extrication

• Command and control

• Mobility (foam roller & breath work)

• Live fire with victims

• Live fire (night burns)

• Pittsburgh drill

• Denver drill

SUPERVISOR TRAINING

• Qualified Company Officer

• The Highly Promotable

• Behavior Health Services

• Supervisor’s Field Guide

PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT

• Blue Card Command Labs

• Basic fire apparatus operations

• Pump school

• Driver’s education

• Introduction to community risk reduction

2025 Metro Atlanta Firefighters Conference

SFD Training Division EMS Director & Paramedic Training

The Emergency Medical Services Division is supervised and coordinated by the EMS Director. One of the many things that the EMS Director is responsible is ensuring compliance with the Georgia State Office of Emergency Medical Services. Each staff member is required to complete 40 hours of continuous education bi-annually to maintain their EMS license.

This Division also teaches and coordinates the medical training for the Smyrna Fire Department initial EMT school and Advanced EMT school (AEMTI; each certification requires approximately 300 hours to complete. Offerings in 2025 included a basic EMT school for 7 firefighters, and an AEMT class for 12 firefighters. The Training Division also participates in numerous conferences, including Metro Atlanta EMS Conference, WellStar Trauma Conference, and hosted a regional Tactical Emergency Causality Care Class.

Smyrna Fire paramedics represent the highest level assigned to an EMS organization, and in general, the highest level of pre-hospital medical care. Paramedics perform a variety of advanced medical procedures and assessments. In 2025, we had a total of three firefighters attend Metro Atlanta Ambulance EMS Academy and complete their instruction in February of 2026. SFD will send another two firefighters to paramedic school for the 2026 class.

In 2025, The SFD renewed its agency license for another 2 years with the Department of Public Health and 41 firefighters renewed their personal EMS license.

Future Firefighter Program

The Future Firefighter Program is presented by the Smyrna Fire Department to aid individuals seeking a career in fire and EMS. In the summer of 2025, Smyrna Fire Department hosted its third program course, providing guidance to approximately 20 participants who wish to become a trusted member of the Smyrna Fire Department, as well as preparation for the physical demands of the job.

The program takes place over four days, four hours/day and include the following:

SMYRNA FIRE FUNDAMENTALS

• Calisthenics exercises

• Jogging

• Lifting and moving tools and objects used by FD personnel

SMYRNA FIRE CULTURE TRAINING

• Firefighter daily routines

• Core Values

• Coaching on interview Techniques

SELECTION PROCESS

• Physical Ability Test

• Practice interview sessions

• Information about the Accuplacer Test

Participants successfully completing the program will be placed on a preferred hiring list.

Honor Guard & Chaplain

SFD Honor Guard

The Smyrna Fire Department Honor Guard is present for those who have answered their final alarm. The team is also present for special events for the city, county, and state such as station openings, veterans honoring, parades, and color guard presentations.

The Smyrna Fire Department Honor Guard participates in several yearly events.

SFD Chaplain

FD Honor Guard

Members include:

Captain Joe Paul

Captain Ronald Sadowski

Lt. Robert Faillo

Eng. Luis Luna

Eng. Jacob Moore

FF Josh Paul

Shell Osbon was named Chaplain of the Smyrna Fire Department in the Spring of 2014. His service to our department focuses on ministering to the spiritual and emotional needs of employees and their families. Shell and his wife Missy are frequently seen visiting with staff at one of our stations or attending one of the many departmental functions held throughout the year. Their ministry supports the Smyrna Fire Department by providing guidance and counseling during difficult times.

Additionally, Pastor Shell is often called upon to deliver the invocation at recruit graduation ceremonies, promotion ceremonies, and various other functions. In 2021, he was recognized for his unwavering “Commitment to Excellence” by earning the rank of Honorary Lieutenant with the Smyrna Fire Department. In 2024, he received the SFD Iron’s Award, presented for his outstanding contributions to the department and community.

County & State Awards

COBB PUBLIC SAFETY AWARDS

Lt. Jody Collis was recognized as a nominee for the Leadership & Excellence Award at the Cobb Public Safety Awards luncheon.

GEORGIA ASSOCIATION OF FIRE CHIEFS

Capt. Ronald Sadowski and Lt. Robert Faillo were recognized in Savannah, GA for their excellence, dedication to education and training.

SOUTH COBB BUSINESS ASSOCIATION

Members of the Fire Marshal’s office were recognized at the South Cobb Business Association’s Public Safety Appreciation Luncheon. Their commitment to excellence in protecting lives, property, and community safety is second to none.

The Smyrna Fire Marshal’s Office was presented with a Chief’s Commendation “for the swift and decisive action in response to an attack on a place of worship by means of fire, resulting in the identification and arrest of a lone actor.”

2025 SFD Awards

RONALD SADOWSKI Firefighter of the Year

SHIFT 1B Impact Award

TIM GRUBAUGH Commitment to Excellence

BRYANT CLARK Chief’s Award Golden

Quarter 1: Bryan Peisel

Quarter 2: Jody Collis

Quarter 3: Anthony Kearney

Quarter 4: Paul Burns

Retirements

Milestones - Years of Service

Community Engagement

PREVENTION

INTEGRITY SERVICE

PARAMEDIC

ACCOUNTABILITY

RECRUITMENT

COMMUNICATION

READINESS

QUALITY

RAPID RESPONSE

COMPASSION

RISK

SMYRNA FIRE

STRATEGIC

REDUCTION PARTNERSHIPS HONOR

COMMUNITY

TRAINING

RESPOND

EMT

EMERGENCY MEDICAL SERVICE CITIZENS FIREFIGHTER PROTECT

COMMITMENT LEADERSHIP PREPAREDNESS

OPPORTUNITY “A TRADITION

OF EXCELLENCE”