Thursday by unanimous vote the Dawson County Board of Commissioners approved the purchase of four pumper/tanker trucks for Emergency Services. 

“Mobile water has been recommended in Dawson County’s ISO certification reviews,” said EMS Director Billy Thurmond.  “The acquisition of the four pumper/tanker trucks could enable the County to obtain a lower ISO rating which may in turn lower fire insurance rates for Dawson County citizens while providing better fire protection due to the improved availability of water,” he continued. 

Presently, Dawson County Emergency Services has two 40,000 gallon fixed water tanks.  One is located on Hwy. 183; the other is on Sassafras Mountain.  “With the acquisition of the four tankers, we can offer more flexible coverage throughout the county allowing water to be taken directly to the fire site,” stated Thurmond.  The 2000 gallon trucks will be positioned at Station #4 and Station #5, while the 3000 gallon trucks will be placed at Station #1 and Station #6. 

SPLOST IV funds make possible the purchase of the fire trucks for Dawson County.  According to Dawson County Purchasing Director Jill Rathe, SPLOST IV allocated $701,577 for fire truck acquisition.  “The County accepted the lowest purchase bid of $677, 600,” said Rathe, “leaving enough in the budget to select and purchase the equipment that will provide the most benefit to the fire-fighting efforts.”