The Hickory Flat Volunteer Fire Department serves an area of more than 100 square miles with a population of over 9,000 residents. It is comprised of 45 members and volunteer firefighters and has various pumpers and tankers, as well as utilizes a mobile air unit. The department maintains a training division that trains members in fire suppression, emergency medical services, extrication, and rope, heavy rescue techniques. The Hickory Flat Volunteer Fire Department works to reduce suffering and damage due to fire, environmental emergencies, natural disasters and other catastrophes through prevention, education and suppression. It operates a communication and dispatch center that coordinates responses to various emergency and nonemergency calls for service. The department works under the government of Canton, Ga.