#EmergencyManagement | AM 1180 Radio

July 31, 2026

GEMA/HS Names Kirk Smith Deputy Director Of Homeland Security Division

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The Georgia Emergency Management and Homeland Security Agency has appointed Kirk Smith as the new Deputy Director of its Homeland Security Division.

Smith most recently served as GEMA/HS Homeland Security Operations Manager. In his new role, he will oversee Homeland Security Operations, Intelligence, and Critical Infrastructure and Key Resources, helping coordinate statewide efforts to strengthen preparedness, security and resilience.

Before joining GEMA/HS, Smith spent nearly 18 years as a Special Agent with the Georgia Bureau of Investigation, where he served in several roles, including field agent, child abuse specialist, crime scene specialist and field training agent. He also served as a civilian law enforcement advisor with the U.S. Army Criminal Investigation Division in Afghanistan from 2010 to 2012.

GEMA/HS Director Josh Lamb praised Smith’s leadership and experience, saying his commitment to preparedness and coordination will help strengthen the agency’s mission of protecting Georgia communities from natural disasters, terrorism and other emergencies.

As part of the Governor’s Office, GEMA/HS works with local, state and federal partners to coordinate disaster response, emergency preparedness and homeland security efforts throughout Georgia.

July 20, 2026

by Jimmy Holbrook

New Georgia Law Requires Registration of AED Locations With Chattooga County 911

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Businesses, schools, churches, government agencies and other organizations in Chattooga County that own an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) are now required to register the device’s location with Chattooga County EMA/E-911 under a new state law that took effect July 1.

March 23, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Chattooga County EMA to Host Community Blood Drive April 10

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The Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency is encouraging residents to give back and help save lives by participating in an upcoming community blood drive on Friday, April 10.

The event will take place from 12:30 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. at the EMA office located at 170 Farrar Drive in Summerville. Organizers say just one donation can help save up to three lives, making community participation especially important.

Those who donate between April 1 and April 15 will also be entered into the Blood Assurance “BA Local Hero” promotion, with a chance to win one of several $100 gift cards being awarded across participating communities.

Appointments can be scheduled online through Blood Assurance, and walk-ins may be accepted as space allows. Officials encourage residents to consider donating and supporting the ongoing need for blood supplies across the region.

February 17, 2026

by WZQZ NEWS

Traffic Advisory: Lane Reduction Scheduled on Rome Boulevard at Railroad Tracks in Summerville

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Motorists traveling through Summerville should prepare for delays beginning Tuesday morning as road work impacts a major route inside the city limits. Officials say traffic on Rome Boulevard/Highway 27 at the railroad tracks will be reduced to one lane starting February 17, 2026, at 9:00 a.m.

An estimated time for full reopening has not been announced. Drivers are encouraged to plan alternate routes, expect delays, and use caution while traveling through the work zone.

The advisory was issued by Pamela M. Vaughn, Director of the Chattooga County Emergency Management Agency, Mapping and Addressing, Deputy Director of Chattooga County E-911, and Chattooga County Safety Coordinator.