The Milton Fire-Rescue Department's Technical Large Animal Emergency Rescue (TLAER) unit responds to certain animal-related emergency needs within Milton and the region.

A core group of fire personnel trains on an ongoing basis to an industry-standard “awareness” level for emergency situations involving large animals. In addition, several firefighters have been trained at the “operations” level -- the most comprehensive training available when it comes to large animal emergency rescues.

The public's response to Milton's TLAER team has been overwhelming. From the very beginning, this service has been funded by donations not only from Milton residents, but from citizens in neighboring jurisdictions, special interest groups and clubs. The money donated has been used to purchase vital equipment needed to perform emergency rescues.

The most significant purchase made to date is "Randy," a training horse mannequin that firefighters use to safely train for virtually any scenario imaginable. A more recent purchase, an A-frame, will allow us to safely lift an animal that cannot stand up or remove it from hazards like a sinkhole.

While such equipment is vital, so are the valuable contributions made by several towing services and private citizens. They have provided a resource for lifting animals, using heavy equipment the City could not purchase on its own.

Equally important to the Department's service are the many veterinarians who have graciously agreed to respond to incidents and attend to the medical needs of the animals being rescued.

Deputy Chief Mark Stephens coordinates the TLAER Unit for the City of Milton. He can be contacted via email at mark.stephens@miltonga.gov or by phone at 678-242-2541 with any questions regarding the TLAER.