Putnam County Fire Chief Thomas McClain - "In The Line Of Duty - A Conversation With The Chief"

My very special guest today has one of the most important, stressful, yet rewarding jobs in our community. Putnam Fire Department Chief Thomas McClain has been in the fire fighting and emergency medical services his entire adult life. Chief McClain grew up right here in Eatonton! Shortly after graduating from Putnam High School, he volunteered for the fire department. Finding his life’s true passion, he next served in the busy Macon Fire Department, gaining a lot of experience and then spent most of his career in the rapidly growing Henry County, moving up the ranks, retiring from the department as Shift Commander, leading a team of nearly 100. But the Chief wasn’t done serving. In 2020, he returned to the Department where he started, but this time as Fire Chief for the busy & growing Putnam County Fire & EMS Department.

Chief McClain is one of those people who seem to know everyone! He spends much of his time in the public, attending meetings & events and working directly with his team. His love and dedication for what he does still shows, even after all these years.

Today, we’ll talk about how technology has changed the equipment and even the techniques over the course of the Chief’s career. We'll discuss the department, staffing and preparation required to respond to emergencies quickly and efficiently. You’ll hear how Chief McClain has built a culture of safety and teamwork among his firefighters and EMTs.

In our conversation today, we'll talk about the challenges that come with running a fire department, and how important it is for the department to maintain the cutting edge of the industry, with both training and equipment. One of my favorite additions to the department and its ability to respond to all types of emergencies, are the new fireboats, which will be on the water in our community very soon. Like so many things, supply chain shortages has impacted these versatile additions, but the wait is almost over!

We'll also explore the role of community outreach and education in the work of the fire department, and how Chief McClain has worked to foster strong relationships to ensure a coordinated response to any situation.

Guest - Fire Chief Thomas McClain

https://www.putnamcountyga.us/fire

Office: 706-485-0469 (non-emergency)

Sponsors - Farmers & Merchants Bank; Lake Oconee Bistro; Tim Broyles State Farm Insurance

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