Fire Marshal Jim Benton with 1998 poster contest winner Kara Grooms

The Fire Prevention Bureau enforces all the state and local codes involving fire safety and prevention, reviews all plans for construction of all commercial dwellings, annual inspection of public facilities, inspection of new underground and above ground tanks and monitors any public event involving fireworks.

The Athens Fire Department, in an effort to better educate the public about fire safety, will present fire safety programs to any group wishing to better their knowledge. These programs are available to schools, industries, and civic groups.

The Fire Prevention Bureau will also conduct home safety and fireplace inspections. These inspections are free of charge and available to any resident in the City of Athens.

Smoke detectors are also an important part of the Fire Prevention Bureau. The Athens Fire Department will inspect and assist any resident with their detectors.

To schedule a fire safety program or an inspection, call the Fire Prevention Bureau at (423) 744-2761. Fire Marshal James Benton may also be reached at jbenton@cityofathenstn.com .

History of National Fire Prevention Week