Charlton County Volunteer Fire Dept. GA.

Charlton County Fire Department was first established in 1932 with the need of more then a "Bucket Brigade". Charlton County Volunteer Fire Departments proudly protects 10,282 people living in 783 square miles and operates out of 5 stations that protects 98% timberland areas. Proudly serving the communities of Folkston, Homeland, St. George, GA Bend, Winoker and Racepond. Most of the buildings that we protect were built a long time ago.

Folkston Fire Dept. {1950}

A article dated August 12, 1932 reads, The recent fire and the lack of an organized Fire Department caused those interested to hold a meeting and organize a regular company of fire ladies. Sheriff Barnes was made Chief and his firemen are being enlisted rapidly from those who enjoy fighting fires. A siren has been purchased been received and has been placed on a pole opposite Passieu Motor Co. Membership: C. J. Passieu, Asst. Chief, O. C. Mizell, Capt. O. E. Raynor, Paxton Stokes, Sidney Robinson, Carl Scott, Jim Stokes, Richard Stroup, Elbert Altman, Fitz Hugh Murry and several others have promised to join.

"Old Folkston Fleet" {1950}

Three small substations were in place and a "Reel" hose was used. In 1950 the Folkston Volunteer Fire Department received no budget from the City, but raised its own money with suppers, donations and dances. Then Folkston Mayor Scott Johnson began bringing the Fire Department into the 20th century. The Police Department building was later torn down and a combination City Hall Fire Department was built. There the Fire Department operated for some time.

"Folkston Volunteer Fire Dept." {1950}

In 1976 the Folkston Volunteer Fire Department was turned over from the City to the County and became incorporated with a new name, The Charton County Volunteer Fire Department. A new location was needed and in 1980 the Fire Department was moved to it now present location. With the purchase of new trucks over the years, the need for a new bay to help house them in was need.

"Old Mack" Tanker purchased in 1952

In 1991, a group of Firefighters worked hard and built a new "Bay" which today houses Engine 12 and Tanker 11. The Bay was designed and built by then Asst. Chief David Kirton, with Chief William Towne taking care of the finances. The exterior of the building is in the old style "Tabby".

Firefighters building Bay #2 {1991}

Today our fleet is small and some are old and in great need of repairs but the Members of Charton County Volunteer Fire Department still take pride in what they do. Operating from a small budget and some of the equipment purchased still from the Volunteer Fire Fighters from events held through out the year, we are able to hold a ISO rating of 7.

Our goal today still remains the same, to provide the best possible fire protection and come to the aid of those who have been injured in auto accidents and other health emergencies.