One year ago, on Memorial Day in 2007, the unthinkable happened, changing this community forever. A massive house fire claimed the lives of a Fulton County firefighter and local resident, and seriously injured another firefighter.

Now, less than three months away from beginning its own local fire department, Johns Creek is receiving a large donation to help purchase critical new high-tech gear to help during house fires and other major emergencies.

Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company is awarding the Johns Creek Fire Department a $30,000 grant for the purchase of five thermal imaging cameras.

The devices use the best technology available to enable firefighters to "see" through smoke and darkness to quickly locate anyone trapped in a building during a fire. The cameras can also play a major role in reducing property damage. With one in hand, firefighters can often locate hot spots inside walls and extinguish them before they spread. With this donation, all five engines within the department will have a camera on board.

Johns Creek Mayor Mike Bodker, Chief Joseph Daniels, Johns Creek firefighters, local dignitaries, and Fireman’s Fund employees will come together for a special public recognition event where the new thermal imaging cameras will be presented:

Date / Time: Location:

Thursday, May 29, 2008 Fireman’s Fund Insurance Company

10:00 a.m. 14175 Great Oaks Way, Suite 200

Alpharetta, GA