2025 Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Annual Report
MISSION
Work aggressively to preserve life and property, promote public safety, and foster economic growth in Cherokee County.
VISION
We will be aggressive and competent firefighters, providing the most progressive emergency medical service in the state. We will be excellent in all things in the service to our community.
VALUES
Courage: The mental and physical ability to face adversity with focus and determination.
Commitment: The act of dedicating one’s self through total effort to accomplishing the mission.
Integrity: We live according to a code of ethics that governs our behavior both on and off the job.
LEADING WITH INTEGRITY
Eddie Robinson Fire Chief
Kevin Lanier Deputy Chief of Support Services
Carter District 3 Commissioner
Chad Davis Deputy Chief of Operations
Will Cagle District 1 Commissioner
Corey Ragsdale District 4 Commissioner
Mark Orr Deputy Chief of Personnel Services
Richard Weatherby District 2 Commissioner
County Manager
Dean Floyd Deputy Chief of Community Risk Reduction
Harry Johnston Chairman
Benny
Geoff Morton
A MESSAGE FROM THE FIRE CHIEF
As Fire Chief of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services, it is my privilege to present our 2025 Annual Report.
It has been the honor of a lifetime to serve the citizens of Cherokee County and the dedicated men and women of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. As I reflect on another year of progress and service, I am humbled by the men and women who make Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services what it is.
Eddie Robinson Fire Chief
This past year also reinforced the importance of community. Public safety cannot succeed in isolation. The trust and support of our citizens, elected officials, and community partners allow us to fulfill our mission at the highest level. For that, I am deeply grateful.
Our department’s success has never been measured solely by apparatus, stations, or statistics, but by the character, commitment, and professionalism of our people. Every day, our firefighters, paramedics, officers, and support staff answer the call with courage and compassion. Because of their unwavering dedication, Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services has grown into one of the finest fire departments anywhere in the world.
I am especially proud of the culture we have built together, one rooted in service, accountability, innovation, and a commitment to excellence. We have faced challenges, embraced opportunities, and continued to raise the standard for what public safety can and should be.
As I approach retirement in 2026, I do so with complete confidence in the future of this organization. The strength of this department lies in the homegrown leaders who have risen through our ranks, who understand our mission, share our values, and are prepared to lead Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services for decades to come. Together, our members will continue to build an organization that our community can depend on today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Thank you for allowing me to be part of this remarkable journey. Serving alongside this team and for this community has been one of the greatest privileges of my life.
ACCREDITATION
The Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services accreditation program is focused on enhancing operational effectiveness and accountability by adhering to international standards set by the Commission on Fire Accreditation International (CFAI). This comprehensive program emphasizes continuous improvement in service delivery.
CCFES engages in a thorough self-assessment process to identify strengths and areas for growth, ensuring the department is working towards established performance benchmarks while fostering transparency and community trust. By achieving and maintaining accreditation, CCFES reaffirms its commitment to excellence in fire and emergency services, prioritizing the highest standards of safety and efficiency for the community.
In early 2025, CCFES continued to advance its accreditation efforts through key milestones that reinforced its commitment to the program. The agency submitted its second Annual Compliance Report and was granted continued accredited status, signifying ongoing compliance with both the requirements and intent of the accreditation process.
During this period, Lt. Randy Fifield was appointed as Accreditation Manager, providing dedicated leadership and coordination for accreditation activities. CCFES also began aligning its processes with the 11th Edition of the Fire and Emergency Services Self-Assessment Manual and transitioning toward the National Emergency Response Information System, ensuring that accreditation efforts remain current, data-driven, and consistent with evolving national standards.
Total Fire & EMS Combined Budgets
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PUBLIC RELATIONS & RECRUITING
Michael Sims Battalion Chief
The Public Relations & Recruitment Office is vital in shaping the recruitment, retention, and public image of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. Led by Battalion Chief Michael Sims, the office manages media relations, public communications, and crisis management, ensuring the department’s messages are clear, timely, and aligned with its mission. Chief Sims is supported by field operations personnel who assist with various public relations and recruiting duties. The office also oversees the department’s social media presence, creating content, monitoring platforms, and managing interactions to engage the community and highlight CCFES’ core values. In FY2025, the Public Relations and Recruiting Office issued 70 news releases, produced 20 livestreams, distributed 12 member newsletters, and organized the grand opening of Station 30.
Working with the Human Resources Division Manager, Training Division Chief, and Command Staff, the office develops and executes a recruitment plan to attract a diverse pool of qualified candidates. This involves marketing strategies to expand the applicant pool for both civilian and sworn positions, as well as supporting all stages of the applicant experience from recruitment to onboarding. In FY2025, the office represented CCFES at 23 career fairs
In addition to recruitment, the office develops strategies for employee retention, promoting career growth, engagement, and the retention of top talent. By analyzing data, maintaining applicant metrics, and gathering feedback, the office refines its approach to meet CCFES’ evolving needs. These efforts ensure that CCFES remains a dynamic, diverse, and professional organization committed to excellence. CCFES ensures members are recognized for their efforts, accomplishments, and longevity. In FY2025, Public Relations & Recruiting assisted with multiple awards presentations resulting in 213 awards presented.
The office also coordinates presentations for local civic groups, community organizations, and government agencies to build strong relationships, increase public awareness, and strengthen community partnerships, ensuring the department remains a trusted and valued resource.
COMMUNITY RISK REDUCTION
The Community Risk Reduction (CRR) branch is committed to enhancing public safety through a range of critical initiatives. This team conducts comprehensive plan reviews and fire inspections to ensure compliance with fire safety codes, safeguarding both new and existing structures. In addition, CRR leads proactive fire prevention programs and educational efforts aimed at reducing the risk of fires in the community. The branch empowers residents and businesses to take preventive measures. CRR also manages fire department capital projects, focusing on the development of modern facilities and the acquisition of advanced apparatus. These efforts ensure that the fire department is well-equipped and prepared to respond effectively, providing the highest level of service to the community. It is overseen by Deputy Chief Dean Floyd.
Dean Floyd Deputy Chief
FIRE MARSHAL’S OFFICE
The Fire Marshal’s Office plays a crucial role in safeguarding the community by providing comprehensive technical support services. Their responsibilities encompass Comprehensive Plan Reviews and Fire Inspections, offering full plan review of all permits and conducting thorough inspections of new construction to ensure compliance with fire and life safety codes; Existing Business Inspections to uphold fire and life safety standards, ensuring a secure environment for employees and visitors; and Collaboration with the Community Development Agency to work closely on matters such as annexations, deannexations, rezonings, and permits, thereby contributing to coordinated development efforts. The Fire Marshal’s Office is led by Division Chief Chad Arp. Chad ArpDivision Chief
FIRE & LIFE SAFETY EDUCATION
The Fire & Life Safety Education Office is committed to fostering a culture of prevention through extensive community outreach. Their initiatives include: Partnerships and Education Programs, engaging with schools, community organizations, and local businesses to deliver educational programs aimed at all age groups; and Diverse Educational Topics, providing resources and education on a wide array of subjects such as fire safety, smoke alarms, child passenger safety, water safety, bike and pedestrian safety, CPR classes, and more. The Fire and Life Safety Education Team is led by Fire & Life Safety Education Program Manager Doug Knott, Ed.D. and reports to Division
Chief Chad Arp.
255,125 People Reached
8,100 PK-12 Students
110 Schools Visited 26,307
CAPITAL PROJECTS
With continued development and population growth across Cherokee County, the need for Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services to plan strategically for the future becomes more critical than ever. Securing land, building appropriate facilities, and replacing existing apparatus are essential steps to support the safety and well-being of our community. As the county grows, so does the demand for fire and emergency services, and the infrastructure and equipment must evolve to meet those needs.
The dollar amounts below represent the amount of SPLOST dollars spent on each station/ initiative during the 2025 fiscal year.
$9,785,869 FY2025 SPLOST SPEND
Station 5
DOA Systems
Station 18
Gear Storage Project at Training Center, Stations 11 & 18
Buffington Property
Classroom Trailer at Training Center
Station 13
Purchase of Squad 30
Purchase of land in Nelson for future replacement of Fire Station 26
Purchase of multiple light duty vehicles and vehicle outfitting
Cherokee County recognizes the significance of the historic Buffington School to the community, which is why county leadership prioritized preserving the more than 100-yearold structure. The original building, constructed in 1910, will be carefully restored and returned to its foundational purpose, educating children. As part of this effort, the Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Life Safety and Education Division will relocate from The Bluffs to the restored school, allowing the facility to once again serve as a center for learning and community engagement.
The former East Wing, which was not part of the original construction, will be demolished to make way for the replacement of Station 29. The new Station 29 will consist of three apparatus bays and be able to house up to 12 firefighters per shift.
Construction is currently underway, with project completion anticipated in 2027.
FIELD OPERATIONS
The field operations branch of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services serves as the cornerstone of the department’s emergency response efforts, delivering rapid and proficient service across a spectrum of incidents, from fire suppression and technical rescues to medical emergencies and hazardous materials response. Operating around the clock every day of the year, field operations ensures that response apparatus are fully staffed and ready to serve the community. In FY2025, the operations branch expanded its capabilities by adding a fourth battalion chief to each shift, enhancing operational oversight, improving incident command efficiency, and strengthening response coordination across all service areas. A fourth aerial apparatus was added to the fleet, strengthening coverage and expediting aerial operations. To enhance operational efficiency, minimum staffing was increased to three personnel per engine and four per aerial apparatus. Furthermore, a new EMS station and Med 30, staffed exclusively by paramedics, were introduced to improve emergency medical response coverage. Equipped with advanced training and specialized resources, field operations upholds Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services’ commitment to protecting the community with expertise and dedication. The branch is led by Deputy Chief Chad Davis.
RESPONSE TIMES (TURNOUT & TRAVEL)
Chad Davis Deputy Chief
SPECIAL OPERATIONS
The Special Operations Division manages the Hazardous Materials Program, the Technical Rescue Program, the Domestic Preparedness Program and Special Events for Fire & EMS response. The programs and team members exemplify the commitment of the Special Operations Division to protect and serve the community in challenging and hazardous situations. The Technical Rescue and Hazardous Materials teams experienced an 11.4% increase in incidents. The Special Operations Division is led by Division Chief Brian Ward.
Hazardous Materials Program
The Hazardous Materials Response Team strives to achieve and maintain the certifications and capabilities required to effectively conduct hazardous material response operations in Cherokee County and other areas throughout the region. The team assists law enforcement agencies with equipment, experience, response and collection of hazardous materials involved in possible criminal activities. Annually, the team conducts hazardous material safety awareness during events for the public. The teams are comprised of trained members in the discipline of HazMat Technician. Station 21 manages hazardous materials operations utilizing HazMat 21, Foam 21 and Utility 21 for response. Station 2 manages decontamination operations utilizing Decon 2 that provides decontamination procedures for the Hazardous Materials team and the public when necessary.
Domestic Preparedness Program
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services and Cherokee County Emergency Management Agency operates an all-hazards preparedness program that includes a coordinated multiagency response plan designed to provide the community with preparedness and resiliency in response to terrorist threats or attacks, major disasters, and other large-scale emergencies that may occur in Cherokee County.
Brian Ward Division Chief
Technical Rescue Program
The Technical Rescue Teams strive to achieve and maintain the certifications and capabilities required to effectively conduct rescues. The teams operate an effective, efficient and safe technical rescue program directed toward rescuing the community from any life endangering causes. The teams are comprised of trained members in specific disciplines. Station 12 manages technical rope rescue, technical large animal emergency response, confined space and wilderness search and rescue, operating Technical Rescue 12 and UTV 12 for response. Station 13 manages swift water operations that include floods, areas on Lake Allatoona, the Etowah River and other bodies of water in Cherokee County operating Utility 13 and Boat 13 for response. Station 20 manages dive operations that include underwater submersion, areas on Lake Allatoona, the Etowah River and other bodies of water in Cherokee County operating Dive Truck 20, Boat 20 and Boat 22 for response. Stations 1, 8, 9 and 21 operate aerial apparatus and provide support for technical rope rescue, structural collapse and vehicle rescue. The Cherokee County Search and Rescue Team is comprised of trained members that volunteer their time providing professional wilderness search and rescue operations and work jointly with Station 12 during missing person incidents and utilizes K-9 resources during operations.
12
19
7
Water Rescue: Dive, Swiftwater, Boating Incidents 14
Missing Person Search & Rescue
Technical Large Animal Emergency Response
Special Events
Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Special Operation Division ensures Fire & EMS planning for special events in Cherokee County are established. Special events include gatherings of many people in a geographic area for entertainment, social interaction and fundraisers. Concerts, festivals, parades, races, firework shows, county school sports/events and college sports are a few examples that take place annually and require public safety agencies in Cherokee County to work together and ensure that everyone’s safety is priority. There was an increase in special events in FY2025 by 137.3%.
Elevator Incidents
Motor Vehicle Crashes
Extrication Incidents
6 Church Events
21 Concerts
25 Festivals
11 Parades
6 Fireworks Shows
12 5K/10K Races (Trail & Road)
3 Bike Races (Trail & Road)
4 Charity Rides (Vehicles/Motorcycles)
37 High School Football Games
2 School Events
15 Sport Events
4 College Football Games
8 Filming Projects
5 Grand Openings
Scott Deal
Division Chief Shift Commander A-Shift
Jamie McCord
Division Chief Shift Commander B-Shift
Shannon Gibbs
Division Chief Shift Commander C-Shift
CCFES operates 28 stations (25 staffed & 3 unstaffed) countywide in three shifts, 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days of the year. Each shift is led by a division chief shift commander followed by four battalion chiefs strategically located throughout the county. Battalions are determined by population density, response times, and call volume.
BATTALION 1
Station 1
Station 11
Station 19
Station 20
Station 22
Station 24
Station 30*
BATTALION 3
Station 6
Station 9
Station 12
Station 13
Station 17
Station 18
Station 27**
BATTALION 2
Station 2
Station 4
Station 5
Station 15
Station 21
Station 25**
Station 26**
Station 29
BATTALION 4
Station 3
Station 7
Station 8
Station 16
Station 23
Station 32
*EMS Only **Unstaffed
Battalion 1
100 Old Bascomb Ct. | Oak Grove Houses: Engine 1, Truck 1, Squad 1, Utility 1 1
2731 Marietta Hwy. | South Canton Houses: Engine 11, Service Truck 11, Utility 11 11
CCFES continues to provide critical emergency medical care and ambulance transport to the residents and visitors of Cherokee County. Under the leadership of Division Director of EMS Operations Chad Huff, the EMS Division remains dedicated to delivering high-quality, patient-centered care. Clinical oversight is provided by Dr. Jonathon Allen, an emergency physician currently completing an EMS Fellowship at the Medical College of Georgia.
All CCFES first-response units are licensed by the State of Georgia as Medical First Response providers. Each unit is staffed by highly trained personnel, EMT-Intermediates, Advanced EMTs, or Paramedics, and equipped with advanced life support tools, including cardiac monitors, emergency medications, and IV supplies. In FY2025, Lt. Mark Alexander was appointed as Community Paramedic Coordinator to lead targeted outreach and risk reduction efforts throughout Cherokee County.
With the opening of the EMS-only Station 30 and the addition of Med 30, staffed by our Paramedic-Only personnel, CCFES has taken another important step in advancing prehospital care. This dedicated resource allows for a more efficient response to all medical emergencies. By strategically deploying specialized personnel and equipment, CCFES continues to enhance the level of care provided to the citizens and visitors of Cherokee County.
Dr. Jonathon Allen Medical Director
Chad Huff Division Director
FIELD SUPERVISION AND QUALITY ASSURANCE
To ensure clinical excellence and operational efficiency, two Medical Supervisors (MedCons) are deployed daily. These individuals are selected for their advanced clinical skills, leadership, and commitment to exceptional service at emergency scenes. Oversight of the MedCon program and daily EMS operations is provided by Medical Operations Supervisor Benjamin Kiefer. Quality assurance is a cornerstone of the EMS Division. Three full-time EMS Quality Assurance/Improvement Officers, all experienced paramedics, review every patient care report to ensure accuracy, adherence to clinical protocols, and appropriate transport decisions. Administrative support is provided by EMS Business Coordinator Summer ChambersStewart, who manages billing, open records, and other essential functions.
CLINICAL REVIEW AND RECOGNITION
High-acuity incidents including cardiac arrests, strokes, STEMIs, and major trauma, are routinely reviewed by the Medical Director and Division Director. This process not only ensures continuous improvement but also highlights outstanding performance by EMS personnel.
SWAT MEDIC TEAM
The SWAT Medic team plays an integral part on the Cherokee Multi-Agency Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) Team. These medics provide medical briefings, scene accountability, and proactive medical care on each operation. The medics also serve in specific disciplines within the team to serve at a greater capacity, from K-9 care, marksman operations, and drone operations. In addition to regular duties, team members taught classes on casualty care and traumatic management. They also served as the medical component to several large VIP details in the Atlanta area.
SUPPORT SERVICES
The Support Services Branch is a mission-driven component of the organization and is dedicated to preserving life and property, promoting public safety, and supporting the continued economic growth of Cherokee County. The mission is clear — to keep CCFES members operational and mission-ready, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Both the Training and Logistics Divisions work tirelessly to ensure that the department and its members not only meet, but consistently exceed local, state, and federal standards. In addition to maintaining compliance, these divisions remain steadfast in their commitment to advancing and supporting the implementation of departmental initiatives that enhance our service delivery, readiness, and community impact. The Support Services Branch is led by Deputy Chief Kevin Lanier
HEALTH & SAFETY
The Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Health & Safety Program is dedicated to proactively ensuring the well-being of CCFES firefighters. This comprehensive program encompasses a range of initiatives designed to promote health, safety, and wellness within the organization.
Enhance Safety Protocols: Implement and regularly update safety procedures to minimize risks during emergency operations. Health & Wellness Initiatives: Provide resources and support for physical fitness, mental health, and stress management to promote overall well-being.
Risk Assessment: Conduct regular evaluations of operational risks and develop strategies to mitigate them.
WELLNESS INITIATIVES
Annual Physical Performance Standards Testing: All Cherokee County sworn personnel undergo Annual Physical Performance Standards testing to ensure all personnel are fit for duty. The testing measures physical readiness, strength, endurance, stamina, and functional movement. In FY2025, the county average time was 9 seconds faster than FY2024 at 6:49. Every year, the department names a “Fittest Shift,” “Fittest Crew,” “Fittest Battalion,” and “Fittest Station” based on the performance results.
Annual Medical Physicals: All sworn personnel also undergo a comprehensive health evaluation, which includes CPET, ultrasound scans, and cancer screenings.
Kevin Lanier Deputy Chief
Scott Gwinn Battalion Chief
PEER-TO-PEER WELLNESS
Peer support is critical in sworn roles with a focus on protecting life and property. The peerfocused wellness programs allow CCFES personnel to train together, maintain fitness together, learn together, and provide support to each other so when they respond together, they can work seamlessly as a team.
Peer Fitness Team
• Assisted in outfitting numerous stations with new gym equipment
• Designed several gyms for upcoming new stations
• Evaluated the results from physicals to develop cardiovascular and nutritional initiatives for personnel to improve and maintain personal health and wellness.
Peer Support Team
• Attended multiple conferences while building strong networks among other public safety agencies around the state.
• Currently evaluating systems to better connect personnel with critical resources in times of need in a timely and confidential manner.
CHAPLAIN RESPONSE UNIT
The Chaplain Response Unit is committed to serving the emotional, spiritual, and mental wellness needs of the members of CCFES. As always, the mission is to be a steady source of support, encouragement, and care for all personnel. In FY2025, the Chaplain Response Unit participated in special events, including Board of Commissioners’ meetings, promotion ceremonies, graduation ceremonies, and station dedications. The Chaplain Response Unit also provides critical support to CCFES members following difficult calls, as well as to family members of victims. They also regularly visit stations throughout the county to offer a listening ear, conversation, and connection. In FY2025, several team members began pursuing certifications through the Georgia Association of Law Enforcement Chaplains, and others began the Essential of Fire Chaplaincy course through the Georgia State Firefighters Association. They also welcomed several distinguished guests from the Ukraine and U.S. faith community with a focus on first responder chaplaincy (pictured).
TRAINING
The Training Division is dedicated to all aspects of training for both new and incumbent personnel within the fire department. They provide 15 weeks of comprehensive training for fire recruits to achieve NPQ1 and NPQ2 certification, followed by an additional 20 weeks to obtain National Registry of Emergency Medical Technicians (NREMT) Emergency Medical Technician and Advanced Emergency Medical Technician certification. Upon graduation, the experienced Training Instructors take over in the continuing education for the department, ensuring that all personnel receive the necessary training and meet the required hours set by state and federal regulations. For those looking to advance their medical training, the Paramedic program offers expert instructors committed to guiding students toward success. The Training Division is overseen by Division Chief Danny Carder
Danny CarderDivision Chief
FIRE EXPLORERS
The Cherokee County Fire Explorers Program continues to serve as a valuable platform for young individuals interested in the fire service from 14 to 20 years of age, offering hands-on experience, mentorship, and opportunities for personal growth. Throughout 2025, the program maintained strong momentum because of consistent participation by over 20 Explorers each week through competitive engagement and community involvement.
Four Explorers successfully completed Emergency Medical Responder (EMR).
HONOR GUARD
Founded in 2000, the Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services Honor Guard is made up of dedicated Cherokee County firefighters and retired fire department personnel. The Honor Guard fulfills various duties, including participating in parades, opening ceremonies, and honoring fallen public safety members at funerals. Among their notable appearances are the Harley Davidson 100th Anniversary Celebration in Atlanta, a NASCAR event at Atlanta Motor Speedway, and the opening day ceremonies for the Atlanta Braves. Recent events included presentations at Dixie Speedway, the annual Patriot Day Ceremony, and most notably, honoring members of CCFES and neighboring departments during their times of loss.
Winterfest
DRONES AS FIRST RESPONDERS
The Drones as First Responders (DFR) Program continues to be a vital asset in advancing the mission of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services. With a focus on enhancing operational safety, efficiency, and situational awareness, the drone fleet and trained personnel have played a growing role in supporting emergency response efforts across the county.
The DFR Program currently operates a fleet of seven (7) drones:
1 Thermal Drone
Provides critical heat signature imaging for fireground size-ups, search and rescue, and hazardous environments.
2
Interior First Person View
Specialized for indoor flight operations in compromised structures, providing real-time reconnaissance without risking personnel.
4 Quick-Deployable Drones
Lightweight and agile units ideal for rapid deployment on scene to provide immediate aerial overwatch.
Training
Several members have successfully obtained their FAA Part 107 Remote Pilot Certificates, expanding operational capacity and compliance with federal regulations. Continued emphasis on training and mission-specific proficiency remains a top priority as the program is built out.
Operational Highlights
Supported multiple structure fire responses with thermal imaging to locate hot spots and direct suppression efforts.
Deployed interior drones in post-fire evaluations to assess structural integrity and search for hidden fire extensions.
Utilized quick-deploy drones during public events and severe weather incidents for aerial situational awareness and crowd monitoring.
Assisted in missing person searches, leveraging aerial visibility and thermal imaging to enhance search operations.
LOGISTICS
The Fire Logistics Division plays a vital role in managing all purchasing needs for CCFES. The division works closely with the fire department’s finance manager on annual contracts, Requests for Proposal, and the procurement of essential items that support Field Operations. This includes new vehicles, uniforms and protective equipment for over 500 personnel, medical supplies, fire equipment, janitorial and office supplies, as well as medals and awards to recognize the exceptional service of field personnel. Logistics also ensures all fire department equipment is well maintained, undergoes annual servicing, and is promptly repaired. This encompasses ladder and pump testing, extrication tools, firefighting hoses and nozzles, ladders, positive pressure fans, power tools, Stryker stretchers and power loads, along with the repair and testing of self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA). The logistics staff also regularly deliver supplies to stations to facilitate seamless operations.
In 2025, four logistics employees achieved Scott Level 1 certification for SCBA repair, enhancing in-house maintenance capabilities.
Acting as a liaison between County Fleet, Property Management, and Field Operations, the Logistics team is essential for ensuring smooth coordination and exemplifying outstanding management skills. Logistics is overseen by Division Chief Marc Liscio
1 Paratech Highway Kit
2 Paratech Engine Kits
3 MultiForce Airbag Kits
100 FacePieces
13 Scott X3Pro 35 Cylinders
4 Battery-Powered Fans
131 Sets of Fire Gear
10 Light-Duty Vehicles
2 Aerial Apparatus
2 Trailers
Marc Liscio Division Chief
PERSONNEL SERVICES
The Personnel Services branch of Cherokee County Fire & Emergency Services focuses on supporting the department’s most valuable asset—its people. It includes the Business Intelligence Division and Human Resources Division. These divisions work together to ensure a skilled, supported, and resilient workforce, contributing to the department’s overall excellence in service delivery. Personnel Services is led by Deputy Chief Mark Orr
BUSINESS INTELLIGENCE
Cheri Collett Division Chief
The Business Intelligence Division is responsible for directing and supervising the functions if Information Technology (IT), Analytics, Accreditation, ISO, Strategic Planning, GIS, Professional Standards, and Fire, Explosion, and Arson Investigations. The Division is led by Division Chief Cheri Collett
Mark Orr Deputy Chief
Data Collection & Analyzation
Risk Assessment & Performance Eval.
GIS Management & CAD Liaison Information Technology Professional Standards Investigations
The Fire IT Department plays a vital role in supporting the technological operations of the fire service. The team manages and maintains vehicle routers, station computers, mobile data computers, and patient care report devices, ensuring seamless connectivity and performance. The department also oversees a range of on-premises and cloud-based software solutions, providing CCFES personnel with the reliable and secure technology necessary to perform their duties safely, effectively, and efficiently. The team led the evaluation of multiple software vendors to identify a new Records Management System aligned with upcoming National Emergency Response Information System (NERIS) requirements, and supervised the IT infrastructure design and installation for Station 30.
GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION SYSTEMS
2025 marks the second successful year of the hydrant inspection utilizing ESRI Field Maps on ISO devices. The GIS Team worked with Cherokee E 9-1-1 to implement upgrading the P1 CAD system. The upgraded system displays and uses more accurate, faster moving, and better visualized maps for routing units to incidents. GIS and Special Operations has been working with Cherokee Parks & Recreation to map and place ELMs (Emergency Location Markers) on the network of trails throughout Cherokee County. Also working with Special Operations, the GIS team created and updated maps for public events such as RiverFest and the Canton Fourth of July fireworks. These maps serve to locate and ensure quicker response to emergent incidents when a computer-based incident location is not available. The GIS team also worked closely with the Cherokee County GIS team to update and upgraded the county GIS servers. These updates will serve to ensure faster workflows, more accurate data collection, and better communions between field operations, CCFES GIS, and the water authorities.
HUMAN RESOURCES
Fire Human Resources manages and facilitates various essential administrative functions. This includes managing databases, facilitating personnel and assignment updates, overseeing components of risk management such as worker’s compensation, performing functions of time management and payroll processing, coordinating onboarding processes for new hires and offboarding processes for employment separations. They also coordinate member enrollment and dues payments for the Georgia Firefighter Pension Fund, as well as facilitating other mid-year insurance changes. The department is overseen by Division Manager Libby Griffiths
