Fire Administration
Fire Administration oversees budgeting, purchasing, bill payment, records management, annual reporting and personnel training records. The division also manages communications, physical fitness compliance and Insurance Service Office (ISO) rating.
This office plays a critical role in keeping the department aligned with advancements in fire service and homeland security. By monitoring trends and data, Fire Administration ensures that resources are used efficiently and effectively.
Admin Deputy Chief: Nathan Springer
(256) 341-4858
Fire Operations
Fire Operations supports emergency response by ensuring that the department maintain readiness and operational support. This division oversees facility upkeep, vehicle and tool inspections and repairs, and manages pre-fire planning resources.
The Operations Office coordinates staffing levels, operational protocols, and resource allocation to maintain a high state of readiness, providing the reliable support personnel need to respond safely and effectively to emergencies throughout the city.
Operations Deputy Chief: Ashley England
(256) 341-4861
Community Risk Reduction & Public Education
This office provides a wide range of services focused on reducing fire risk and promoting public safety. This includes inspections of all commercial, business and public facilities and plan review. This division also conducts fire investigation and determines the origin and cause of fires.
In addition, this office offers fire and safety education programs tailored to the specific needs of the requesting audience, helping to increase awareness and prevent emergencies before they occur.
Acting Fire Marshall: Chief Bobby Anders
(256) 341-4856
Deputy Fire Marshall: Lieutenant Brandon Sivley
(256) 341-4860
Emergency Medical Services
Decatur Fire & Rescue provides basic and advanced life support for trauma and life-threatening emergencies, delivering expert care in the critical minutes before a patient reaches the hospital. All firefighters are cross-trained and licensed as Emergency Medical Technicians or Paramedics. Each fire engine in the city is equipped with a defibrillator to support rapid intervention.
In addition to emergency response, the department offers free in-station services, including blood pressure checks and diabetes screenings at all eight fire stations. Results are kept confidential and may help identify trends that indicate when follow-up with a physician is needed.
EMS Officer: Lieutenant Lyle Willits
(256) 341-4873
Fire and EMS Training
Decatur Fire & Rescue remains current with the latest fire and EMS training standards and practices. To ensure consistent and effective training, all programs are planned and scheduled by the department’s Training and Education Committee. This committee has developed a comprehensive training plan that makes full use of our modern Fire Training Center located in the Flint area of Decatur.
Division Chief: John Mims
(256) 341-4866
Technical Rescue/Hazardous Materials Mitigation
Decatur Fire & Rescue maintains a full-service Technical Rescue and Hazardous Materials Mitigation Team trained to handle specialized rescue situations and hazardous material incidents, including chemical spills and releases. With the city’s industrial growth, this team plays a critical role in protecting both the community and the environment and remains a vital part of the department’s emergency response capabilities.
