Off duty deputy severely burned

From the Madison County Sheriff’s Office:

Lt. Zac Brooks of the Madison County, Georgia, Sheriff's Office was severely injured on Tuesday in a flash burn incident in Elbert County. Brooks is currently at home after receiving care at the Augusta Burn Center.

Message from Zac -

Everyone who knows me knows I’ve spent all of my adult life in public safety EMS, Fire, and Law Enforcement. I’ve always had a heart to help others and serve my community in their time of need. I never imagined I would be on the other side of that call.

Yesterday, I was involved in a major incident that resulted in a flash burn to my face. The blast threw me through the air and literally melted the clothes and hat that I was wearing. It’s nothing short of a miracle that I’m even able to write this post.

I want to sincerely thank Elbert County Emergency Services. The 911 Dispatchers, EMTs and Paramedics, first responders, Sheriff’s Deputies, and volunteer firefighters for their quick response, getting me to the burn center in Augusta so quickly, and the incredible care they provided to “one of their own," I know firsthand how stressful those calls can be, and I am beyond grateful.

The rapid response, the treatment I received, and the amazing God I serve are the only reasons I’m still here and why my injuries were not nearly as severe as they should have been.

I’m overwhelmed by how many people came from one end of the county to the other to help me. The calls and prayers have also been overwhelming.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you and God bless you all!

* We send our prayers Zac’s way and wish him a speedy recovery ❤️‍🩹