Swallows Named Chairman For Emergency Planning

Algood Assistant Police Chief Bryant Swallows selected as the new chairman for Putnam County’s Local Emergency Planning Committee.

Swallows said that the role has historically not been occupied by law enforcement officers. He said it is important to have all of the different kinds of first responders working together through this committee.

“I was impressed that they, they thought that I could, you know, do a good job there,” Swallows said. “You know, it means a lot, especially whenever your peers from law enforcement and EMS and fire and everybody, you know, they, they think that, you know, you could fill that position.”

Swallows said his focus will be on continuing the team effort that the committee needs, even with his unique perspective as an LEO. He said his main responsibility will be meeting every month to discuss ways to maintain and improve emergency preparedness throughout the county.

“It goes along hand with planning for the city of Algood,” Swallows said. “You know, we establish a couple of different drills throughout the year that we concentrate on and – and work hand-in-hand with TEMA also, you know, to help everybody be prepared.”

Swallows said each discipline involved in the committee has a key role to play in protecting the county and its citizens.

“As we’ve seen at different disasters throughout the history of Putnam County, from the most recent, you know, the tornadoes, COVID, the ice storm a few years ago, everybody has a piece of the pie that they’re responsible for,” Swallows said. “And, you know, whenever you have an understanding of what the other team, so to speak, is doing, and their goals, responsibilities, and their mission, it just – it just comes out better for all the citizens and everybody.”

Swallows said decision was made by the previous chairman, EMA Director Brandon Smith, and County Mayor Randy Porter.

“I don’t know why they chose me, but I was just glad and honored that they did,” Swallows said.