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SUMTER COUNTY, Ga. (WALB) - As dangerously hot summer temperatures continue across South Georgia, firefighters are reminding the public about the physical toll extreme heat takes on first responders after battling a house fire in Sumter County.

Sumter County Fire & Rescue responded to a structure fire around 7:02 p.m. on July 5th.

WALB spoke with Sumter County Fire Chief Jerry Harmon, who said the home was a total loss and that the cause of the fire remains under investigation. He also said no injuries were reported.

He highlighted that while crews worked to extinguish the fire, firefighters also faced the added challenge of extreme heat, making rehabilitation and cooling efforts critical during the response.

Chief Harmon thanked the many agencies and emergency personnel who assisted at the scene, as well as those who provided towels, water and other cooling supplies to help firefighters recover from the exhausting conditions.

“Please remember all of our emergency responders as they deal with the extreme heat and exhaustion of summer and firefighting,” Harmon said.

With temperatures and heat index values remaining high across South Georgia, emergency officials encourage residents to stay hydrated, limit outdoor activity during the hottest parts of the day and remember that firefighters and other first responders often work in heavy protective gear while responding to emergencies.

The fire remains under investigation.

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