Sandersville Fifth Grader Tapped as Junior Fire Chief

The Lexington Fire Department (LFD) has named Sandersville Elementary fifth grader Jillian Sensabaugh as its 2025 junior fire chief. This program is one way the LFD Community Services Bureau helps educate and connect with our community. This year’s theme for Fire Prevention Week (Oct. 5-11) is “Charge into Fire Safety – Lithium-Ion Batteries in Your Home.” 

“A lot of things have lithium-ion batteries, so I focused on the do’s and don’ts,” Jillian said of her winning essay and poster. “The most important thing is where you place the electronics, which might explode or catch on fire because they overheat. It’s really dangerous if you don’t lay them on a hard surface.” She also reminded people not to overcharge a device and to always use the right charger. 

Read Jillian’s Essay

In three packed days this week, Jillian will visit local businesses, landmarks, and fire stations; take part in media interviews; and join Fire Chief Jason Wells at meetings with the LFUCG council and Mayor Linda Gorton. 

“These experiences will give her the chance to promote fire safety and share this vital message with people across our community,” Wells said. “Lithium-ion batteries seem to be everywhere, and this year’s campaign raises awareness on buying safe products, charging devices safely, and disposing or recycling responsibly.”

More than 100 Sandersville fifth graders participated in the LFD contest – a record number of entries. Each fall, the LFD selects a different elementary school, which then coordinates its fifth-grade competition. “Jillian’s thoughtful and creative presentation really stood out to us,” Wells said.  

Principal Matt Noblin, who has known Jillian for six years, also praised her efforts. “Jillian consistently works hard and has a great personality,” he said. “She exemplifies what it means to be a (Sandersville) Shark.”