On Saturday, Aug. 13 Chief Ken Zaydel and Deputy Chief James Robinson of the Social Circle Fire Department joined 21 fellow chiefs in receiving the first certifications by the Georgia Association of Fire Chiefs (GAFC) during the 2016 Fire Services Conference held in Augusta.

“It’s an honor to be among some of first chiefs in Georgia to receive this new certification,” said Zaydel.

To be certified, applicants must meet four pre-requisites, including Georgia Firefighter Standards and Training (GFSTC) State Certification in one of more areas -- Georgia Volunteer Fire Chief Certification, Georgia Chief Fire Officer Certification and Georgia Fire Chief Certification. Applicants must also have served as a battalion chief or division supervisor.

Applicants were also assessed on a point system based on years of service, education levels, certifications, recognition for additional credentials and completion of Chief Fire Officer Level eight-hour classes.

“We developed this program to ensure that the fire departments in the state of Georgia have qualified, credentialed and professional leaders and managers overseeing their departments and personnel,” said Dwayne Jamison, First Vice President of the GAFC.

Dating back to 1952 and based in GMA’S Atlanta office, GAFC works to advance fire services in Georgia and represents more than 700 chief fire officers statewide.