Prison Crews Boost Fire Response | Macon News

Macon Georgia News Today | 2 Min News | The Daily News Now! · Sep 2, 2026 · 1m

Houston County just unlocked a fire safety game-changer by partnering with Dooly State Prison—turning inmates into frontline responders. When structure fires erupt south of Highway 341, the prison’s trained fire team rolls in alongside county crews, slashing response times from 8-10 minutes to near-instantaneous. Fire Chief Chris Stoner calls it a no-brainer: extra hands, extra gear, and a smarter use of resources. But it’s not just about speed—it’s about redemption. The state’s rehab program lets inmates earn real-world skills while serving time, turning incarceration into community service…