This feature ran in the last issue of our Community Matters magazine.
While many residents may associate emergency management with severe weather alerts, officials at the Cullman County Emergency Management Agency (EMA) say their work extends far beyond the forecast in ways many don’t realize.
Cullman County EMA Director Tim Sartin and EMA Specialist Brent McDonald are being recognized as local heroes for their wide-ranging efforts to keep the community safe. From hazardous material spills and missing person cases to large-scale disasters and daily coordination with first responders, nearly every major incident in the county involves EMA in some capacity.
“If it’s something large that happens, some way, shape or form, it touches our office,” Sartin said.
The agency plays a key role in supporting emergency response efforts, providing resources, coordinating communication and helping manage incidents as they unfold. EMA works closely with law enforcement, fire departments, EMS and local governments, often stepping in as a support system or incident command when needed.
The biggest misconception about EMA is that its role is limited solely to weather.
“That is a big part of what we do, but that is not who we are,” McDonald said. “We do a little bit of everything.”
That “everything” includes maintaining emergency equipment, securing grants, housing specialized response units and ensuring the county is prepared for disasters. The agency also manages a warehouse of resources that can be deployed across the county or even the state, from generators and lighting to command trailers and emergency supplies.
Both Sartin and McDonald bring extensive backgrounds in emergency services, including EMS, fire and law enforcement. They continue to serve part time in medical roles, which strengthens their response capabilities.
For Sartin, the role is the culmination of a lifelong calling. “Everything I’ve done has pointed me in this direction,” he said. “This allows me to use everything I’ve learned to help the community.”
McDonald echoed that sentiment, saying his passion for the job comes from a desire to serve others and help those he can.
Recently, the EMA has gained attention across the state and even the nation for its social media outreach, particularly regarding severe weather events and preparedness. Informational videos produced by the EMA have reached large audiences, helping educate the public and even drawing recognition from other agencies and media outlets.
Despite the high-stress nature of their work, both men say their approach to handling emergencies is grounded in preparation and faith.
When asked how they cope with the demands and strain of the job, they simply said, “Pray.”
While their work often places them in critical situations, both Sartin and McDonald are hesitant to accept the title of “hero.” Instead, they believe heroism is found in everyday acts of service, whether it’s a first responder saving a life, a teacher helping a student succeed or a neighbor offering support in a time of need.
“Anybody that impacts your life in a positive way can be a hero,” McDonald said.
The Cullman County EMA perfectly embodies that definition by quietly working behind the scenes to protect and support Cullman County in every way.
Cullman County EMA Director Tim Sartin (Cullman County EMA)
Cullman County EMA Specialist Brent McDonald and his son (Cullman County EMA)
Cullman County EMA Specialist Brent McDonald on the job (Cullman County EMA)
