The Smyth County Department of Public Safety has been working hard with our partners to increase our responses to your emergencies. It is important to us that we have a diverse but unified response to our County that reflects the diverse area we serve. Smyth County is a proud area of individuals who are dedicated to service and our department wants to reflect the community’s proudest attributes. As we move forward and grow to meet the needs, we look at our communities and their needs to provide equitable and comprehensive service.

As the leader of our department, I am proud of the abilities of our members and partners. Our robust training program has grown to cultivate the providers that our communities deserve. As of 2023, the County will now be able to provide initial training to all its citizens for public safety at no cost. There is career building educational opportunities to our citizens. We are ecstatic to provide this community by nurturing occupational education within the County.

Our organization believes that working together as a team, we can provide the needed resources for our County. During the COVID pandemic, our agencies stepped up and answered a nearly 15% call increase. Our call load continues to grow in the County. SCPS is prepared to meet these needs and will grow as the need continues to rise.

Our work would not be possible without the continued support we receive from the Smyth County Board of Supervisors and the three towns in the County, Marion, Chilhowie, and Saltville. They have supported our agencies and provided use with the ability to help those in need. Each citizen has also provided support to our department as well. Whether it be staying tuned to emergency alerts, being prepared, checking on neighbors in need, or providing other support, our citizens are the backbone to what we do and why we do it.

In closing, I am proud to serve in the capacity that has been awarded me. I can wake daily with the task to continue cultivating a safer Smyth County. As we move forward, stay abreast of our changes and give us feedback to keep us in touch. This is truly a blessing to serve and help my fellow friends and family. Thank you.

Sincerely,

Curtis W. Crawford
Emergency Services Coordinator, Smyth County Department of Public Safety