Powers of Fire Departments in Event of Emergencies Generally

1. Law
2. Georgia Code
3. Fire Protection and Safety
4. Local Fire Departments Generally
5. General Provisions
6. Powers of Fire Departments in Event of Emergencies Generally

In the event of any fire, explosion, bomb threat, or similar emergency, the fire department in any county, municipality, or other political subdivision shall be authorized to:

1. Enter any property, building, structure, vehicle, watercraft, aircraft, railroad car, or other place for the purpose of fighting the fire, explosion, or similar hazardous conditions or searching for a bomb or enter any such place which is, in the opinion of the chief officer of the fire department or his designee, endangered by fire, explosion, bomb threat, or similar hazardous conditions;
2. Cut any wires, electrical or otherwise, or turn off any utility, as deemed necessary to preserve life or property;
3. Prevent the blocking of any public or private street, road or alley, way or driveway, or emergency lane during any such emergency and remove any vehicles or other obstructions necessary;
4. Confiscate supplies, chemicals, or equipment necessary for such emergency;
5. Make any necessary tests; and
6. Evacuate any building or area necessary.

(Ga. L. 1980, p. 1395, § 2; Ga. L. 1983, p. 3, § 18; Ga. L. 1989, p. 271, § 1.)

Cross references.

- Liability of members of fire departments for acts performed while fighting fires or for acts performed at scenes of emergencies, § 51-1-30.

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