Barrow Firefighters Prepare for Potential Emergencies

This week, firefighters from Station 4 and Station 7 toured the Stepan plant on Bankhead Highway to better prepare for potential emergency calls at the facility.

"One of the best ways to control any emergency is to be prepared before the emergency happens and be familiar with the area," said Barrow County Emergency Services public information officer Lt. Scott Dakin in a released statement. "One of the ways we prepare is to work with businesses in the county and look at potential emergencies that may affect that business."    

During the tour, company representatives briefed firefighters on plant safety plans. Firefighters also had the opportunity to learn about chemicals stored at the plant and their associated hazards.

"This training is very valuable to the firefighters," Dakin said. "It helps us understand the potential hazards and the many safety measures the company has in place to prevent any incidents. It also helps us understand the capabilities of the Stepan employees that are trained in hazardous material response as well as confined space operations."    

Dakin thanked the Boone Brothers of Stepan Company for helping firefighters prepare for potential emergencies at the plant and throughout the county.

"They have worked really well with us over the years and helped us in many different areas," he said.