Emergency Services
Dawson County Fire & Emergency Services is committed to the perseveration of life and the protection of property for all citizens and visitors of Dawson County. The Emergency Services department consists of the following divisions:
- Administration
- Fire/Rescue
- Emergency Medical Services
- Emergency Management Agency
- Volunteer Opportunities and Application
Dawson County Fire & Emergency Services proudly provides service to the residents and visitors of Dawson County, as well as the City of Dawsonville. Our coverage area totals 211 square miles, including Springer Mountain, the southern terminus of the Appalachian Trail, and over 50 miles of shoreline on Lake Sydney Lanier. Lake Lanier is the most visited Corps of Engineers Lake in the United States, attracting over two million visitors annually. DCFES operates eight fire stations, of which six are staffed by career members, and two are supported by volunteers. Approximately 90 paid and volunteer members of the department respond to approximately 5,300 calls for service annually.
Dawson County has been rated as an ISO Class 3 Fire Department. This community rating, also called the Public Protection Class, is determined by the combined scores awarded to the fire and water departments, as well as the 911 center, and enables our residents and businesses to receive lower insurance premiums and superior service.
The department was created in 2002 by the Dawson County Board of Commissioners when the fire department, ambulance service, and emergency management agency were consolidated into one department. DCFES serves as an aid to the community and is recognized by many local organizations for its expansive involvement in the community. The department is the host agency for the Dawson County Community Emergency Response Team (CERT). In addition, each year the staff collects funds through boot drives for the Muscular Dystrophy Association, the Georgia Firefighter’s Burn Foundation, and KARE for Kids. The agency also participates in a variety of programs with the local school system, career fairs, and offers learning opportunities through internship, the Junior Fire Academy, and Citizens’ Government Academy.
