NECX Implements Wildfire Response Team

MOUNTAIN CITY – The Northeast Correctional Complex (NECX) recently partnered with the Tennessee Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry (DOF), making NECX a part of the DOF’s Wildfire Response strategy.    The DOF protects our state forests through fire readiness, wildfire suppression, training, and arson prevention.  During a crisis, the DOF works closely with volunteer firefighters and rescue squads in the affected areas.  Due to this new partnership, NECX officers are trained to provide assistance during a wildfire crisis in the Mountain City or Johnson County areas. 

Earlier this year, the DOF began the process of training a NECX fire response team by hosting a training course for correctional officers.  The course included equipment needed to fight wildfires, basic first aid, and basic firefighting techniques, including how to build a fire line.  Since the initial training, NECX staffers have identified eligible offenders who volunteered to be a part of the wildfire response team and have begun training them. Trainings will be held periodically throughout the year to ensure preparedness.

“Preparedness is the key to managing any crisis,” said Georgia Crowell, Warden at NECX.  “We, as a facility have plans and strategies in place for our facility, but we wanted to make sure we were also prepared to help out and serve our communities should the need arise.  Thanks to this partnership with the Department of Agriculture’s Division of Forestry, we are in fact prepared and ready when we are needed.”

NECX is the second facility to implement a Wildfire Response Team.