TYLER, Texas (KLTV) – We’re now a week into the new year and East Texas has already battled several wildfires. Multiple counties have issued burn bans and even disaster declarations due to elevated fire danger, and it’s not expected improve soon.
Right now, fire officials are warning that conditions could be ripe for a larger fire outbreak this year than last year. We’ve been seeing dry conditions and some windy days. Experts with the “National Interagency Fire Center” predict those conditions will worsen and become more widespread. With no rain yet, tall grass and other plants have dried up, making for more fuel if a fire does break out.
Firefighters in East Texas have been spread thin due to the high volume of calls coming in day and night, and fire crews across the state are being forced to manage with limited resources. Doing the job with old equipment makes it even harder, and sometimes dangerous. That’s why crews are investing in some upgrades.
The Hudson Volunteer Department just replaced its hose and nozzles, making the transition from outdated brass to high-pressure combination nozzles. The department says the upgrade is essential during the winter season. Hudson V.F.D. outfitted three fire trucks, to the tune of $2,700 each. The upgrades were made possible thanks to donations from the community.
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