Ucga1stresponders

06/17/2026

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06/17/2026

Thunderstorms
Almost every spring and summer, we talk about severe thunderstorms. This may not be as interesting a subject as hurricanes, tornados, or ice storms but severe thunderstorms can be very common for our area and they can cause extensive damage. Union County Fire Department/EMA would like to provide some information on thunderstorms and what you can do to keep safe.
The summer heat and humidity provide the right conditions for the development of these severe thunderstorms. They can pop-up suddenly and produce heavy rain, dangerous lightning, and flash floods, especially in our mountain terrain.
The first step in being prepared is to stay informed. Television, radio, social media, and cell phone apps can provide information on severe weather events. Knowing the difference between a Severe Thunderstorm Watch and a Warning can be very helpful. A Severe Thunderstorm Watch means severe thunderstorms are possible and we should be prepared. A Severe Thunderstorm Warning means a severe storm is expected and we should take shelter. Warnings indicate imminent danger to life and property.
Lightning that is associated with severe thunderstorms can be very dangerous. If you can hear thunder, then there is the potential for lightning in your area. The best practice for possible lightning near you is to get indoors and avoid possible conduction areas. If in a forest, seek shelter in a low area under a thick growth of small trees. If in an open area, go to a low place such as a ravine or valley. Be alert for flash floods. If on open water, get to land and find shelter immediately.
Thunderstorms can also produce heavy rain in a small area and in a short amount of time. This heavy rain can make driving very dangerous due to water on the road and lack of visibility. The best practice is to slow down; increase distance between vehicles or even pull into a parking area until it passes.
The heavy rain can also produce flash flooding. Avoid moving water and never drive through running water. Just six inches of moving water can knock you down and two feet of water can sweep your vehicle away. If there is a chance of flash flooding, move immediately to higher ground.
We all want to enjoy our summer but we must keep safety in mind. Stay informed of potential severe weather. Be aware of any possible thunderstorms and know the watches and warnings. Be ready for lightning, heavy rain, and possible flash flooding that may be associated with these thunderstorms. Union County Fire Department ~Our Family Protecting Your Family~

06/17/2026

06/12/2026

Scam Alert

🚨 SCAM ALERT – A New Variation Targeting Our Area 🚨

The Union County Sheriff's Office wants to remind everyone to remain vigilant when receiving unexpected phone calls, text messages, emails, or documents claiming to be from government agencies.

Recently, residents have reported receiving documents similar to the one pictured, which falsely claim that their Social Security Number has been suspended, that criminal charges have been filed against them, or that they must immediately contact a government office to avoid arrest or other consequences.

These documents are fraudulent and are designed to create fear and urgency in order to convince victims to provide personal information, banking information, Social Security numbers, or even send money.

⚠️ Remember:
• Government agencies do not suspend Social Security numbers.
• Legitimate law enforcement agencies do not demand money, gift cards, cryptocurrency, or personal information over the phone.
• Scammers often spoof phone numbers to make calls appear legitimate.
• Never provide personal, financial, or identifying information to anyone unless you have independently verified who you are speaking with.

If you receive a call, text, email, or document like the one shown in this post, do not respond or provide any information. Instead, verify the contact information through an official government website or contact the agency directly using a known, trusted phone number.

If you believe you have been targeted by a scam or may have provided information to a scammer, please contact the Union County Sheriff's Office immediately.

📢 Please share this post to help protect your family, friends, and neighbors from becoming victims of fraud.

06/11/2026

As America celebrates its 250th Anniversary, we invite those who have dedicated their lives to serving others to join us for an evening of appreciation, fellowship, and community.

Whether you are an active or retired first responder or a member of the military, Sheriff Dyer would be honored to have you attend.

📅 June 25
🕕 6:00 PM
📍 Pat Haralson Memorial Civic Center
165 Wellborn Street

Enjoy an evening of food, music, and fellowship as we come together to recognize the men and women who answer the call to serve our communities and our nation.

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. We look forward to seeing you there.

06/08/2026

***Modification Update***
The road closures on Hunt Martin St. and Blue Ridge St. are now scheduled for 1800 hrs (that’s 6pm for civilian folks), on the same date, June 9th. Plan accordingly! FYI… this could all change again if the weather doesn’t cooperate. We’ll keep you updated with any new 🆕 information as we receive it!

Heads up Blairsvillian’s!! Lane closure alert! Traffic on Blue Ridge St. And Hunt Martin St. will be interrupted on Tuesday, June 9th. Plan accordingly! Be Safe and have a great week!

06/04/2026

Did you know that 69% of our nation's firefighters are volunteers. We're looking for the next generation of recruits to protect our community. Are you up for the challenge? http://bit.ly/1P2HQcJ

06/03/2026

Congratulations

Water Mapping
The Union County Fire Department is proud to announce that Firefighter Conner Cook has successfully completed the 8-hour Water Mapping course at the Georgia Public Safety Training Center (GPSTC).
This specialized course focused on modern fire behavior and the impact that firefighting tactics and water application techniques have during interior fire operations. Through both classroom instruction and hands-on training, participants studied how different suppression methods influence heat conditions, firefighter safety, occupant survivability, and overall fire behavior inside structures.
The training emphasized proper water stream application techniques and how strategic fire attack methods can improve operational effectiveness in today’s modern fire environment.
“Training like this is critical as the fire service continues to adapt to changing building construction and fire behavior,” said Fire Chief David Dyer. “Firefighter Cook’s commitment to continuing education helps strengthen our department’s ability to operate safely and effectively on the fireground.”
By completing the course, Firefighter Cook has enhanced his understanding of fire dynamics and suppression tactics, further improving the department’s operational readiness and commitment to public safety.
Union County Fire Department ~Our Family Protecting Your Family~