Overview  

Within the Fire Department's Operations Division, Special Operations is comprised of several specialized response teams that handle a wide variety of both high-risk-low frequency type incidents.

ORIGINS  

Special Operations began with the formation of the department's Hazardous Materials Response Unit. Over the years, other specialized units were added. These specialty units are not intended as a replacement for first-line Engine & Ladder companies, but as a compliment to them. DFR has a variety of equipment and apparatus used to augment general operations. 

Hazmat Incident is defined as the intentional or accidental release of toxic, combustible, illegal or dangerous nuclear, biological or chemical agents into the environment. Since its establishment in 1996, the Hazmat Team has responded to dozens of incidents and continues to develop its capabilities to deal with special emergencies within Decatur's Industrial complex.

  medium rescue team (mrT)

The Medium Rescue Team (MRT) remains ready to deploy in any number of regional disasters which have afflicted the Gulf Coast Region in recent years.  With it's multifaceted rescue capabilities, Decatur Fire & Rescue remains an industry leader not only within our own community, but as one of the most diversified departments in Alabama.