Overview

It is the goal of Fire Prevention is to decrease the number and severity of fires throughout our community. This goal is accomplished through regular fire prevention inspections and public education programs. When fires do occur a fire investigation is conducted to determine the origin and cause of the fire.
The fundamental reason for conducting fire inspections is to limit the risk of life and property losses from fire by identifying those conditions, which contribute to the occurrence and spread of fire.

To achieve this goal, Fire Prevention reviews plans for conformance to code requirements. Fire sprinkler plans and fire alarm plans, as well as other types of built-in fire protection systems are also reviewed. Interaction with other city departments, County and State agencies is a high priority. Meetings are attended during the design and development stage with architects, fire protection engineers, and contractors to assure code compliance, accelerate the review and approval process, and minimize construction delays.

Public fire education programs can be tailored to suit individual needs. Programs include, but are not limited to programs for schools, businesses, civic organizations and the elderly. Programs may include lectures, audiovisual presentations and hands-on experience.

Another mission of Fire Prevention is to provide fire investigation and law enforcement services to the citizens of Georgetown through complete and thorough investigations, evidence collection and professional expert testimony in court proceedings when it relates to crimes involving fire.

Fire Prevention is responsible for investigating suspicious fires and explosions throughout the city. Nationally, arson (and suspected arson) is the primary cause of property damage due to fire in the United States and the second leading cause of building fire deaths. To combat this serious problem, certified investigators respond to assist the public 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Arson investigators are sworn peace officers authorized to interview witnesses, collect evidence, make arrest and appear in court.
For more information on fire prevention, please contact Fire Prevention at 512 930-8453 or 512 930-2542.