Public Information

Barrow County Emergency Services is a professional career department that proudly provides fire suppression, emergency medical service basic and advanced life support, hazardous materials response, fire prevention training, fire investigation and community education programs to the citizens and visitors of Barrow County.

We operate six engines, one seventy-five foot aerial and six advanced life support ambulances throughout the county to provide these services to the public.

Frequently Asked Questions:

Q: Where is the nearest fire station to my house?
A: We have six fire stations located throughout the county. Stations are located in Statham, Bethlehem, Auburn, County Line, Holsenbeck and Apalachee. The City of Winder operates two stations that serve the City of Winder. Please call (770) 307-2987 ext. 3 and we can help you determine which station is closet to you.

Q: Where is the nearest fire hydrant to my house?
A: Due to the large number of hydrants in the county, we cannot determine where your closet fire hydrant is. We recommend you drive the area around your home to find your nearest hydrant.

Q: What is the ISO or fire insurance rating for Barrow County?
A: Barrow County currently has an ISO rating of 5/9.

Q: Does the fire department fill swimming pools?
A: No, we do not fill swimming pools. You can contact the Barrow County Water Authority at (770) 307-3014 for other options.

Q: Can we host my child's birthday party at the fire station?
A: No, due to safety and security concerns we do not allow parties at the station. We welcome your party to tour the fire station as a part of your at home party.

Q: Can we come to the fire station for a visit?
A: Yes, we recommend you call fire headquarters to set up an appointment at the fire station you intend to visit so we can ensure that personnel are at the station during the time you wish to visit. You can reach fire headquarters at (770) 307-2987 ext. 3.

Q: Can I come to the fire station to have my blood pressure checked?
A: Yes! We encourage you to come to the fire station to have your blood pressure checked. All stations offer free blood pressure testing from 8am-8pm seven days a week.

Q: How do I get a copy of a fire or ambulance trip report?
A: Fire and ambulance trip reports are available two business days following the incident. Please call (770) 307-2987 ext. 3 for information on how to obtain these reports.

Q: Can I choose which hospital I am taken to?
A: In most situations, yes. Our service has a policy that we will transport patients to the facility of their choice providing the hospital chosen is within reasonable distance to the patient’s location and is capable of meeting the patient’s needs. In life threatening situations, personnel will transport the patient to the closest, but most appropriate facility for the emergency situation the patient is experiencing. Appropriate patient care is the goal of Barrow County Emergency Services, paramedics will often encourage the patient and their family to be transported to the best suited facility to meet their immediate medical needs.

Q: Does my health insurance cover being transported by ambulance to the hospital?
A: In most cases, yes. This depends on the type of coverage that the patient has and whether the service is considered medically necessary by the patient’s insurance carrier. The amount that your insurance company may pay towards ambulance transportation will vary based on the insurance contract that you have with your insurance company. Insurance plans offer different levels of coverage or customary charges that the insurance company will pay towards the bill. This amount varies greatly from 100% of the fees charged to another amount the insurance company decides is usually and customary. Each insurance company and, in some cases, each insurance policy may pay differently towards ambulance transportation. Medicare and Medicaid also cover ambulance transportation, however, they both have specific rules and guidelines regarding ambulance charges. We encourage you to check with your insurance provider should you have specific questions pertaining to your coverage.

Q: Why does a fire truck come with the ambulance on some medical calls?
A: Many medical and trauma related emergencies require additional resources. Depending on the nature of the emergency, a fire engine will respond to provide assistance to the responding ambulance crews. All department personnel are cross trained as firefighters and EMT's or Paramedics. Sending additional medically trained crew members allows us to provide the best care to a patient in their time of need. Engines also respond to all motor vehicle accidents in the county to provide additional manpower and vehicle extrication. 

Q: Who can I call if my child is playing with fire?
A: Call fire headquarters at (770) 307-2987 ext. 3 and we will put you in touch with our Public Education and Fire Prevention Division.

Q: Does the fire department perform safety inspections of private residences?
A: We do not typically perform inspections of private residences but we will provide residential fire safety information at the request of the home owner.

Q: How may calls did Barrow County Emergency Services respond to last year?
A: Barrow County responded to over 7,400 incidents in 2009.