The city of Frisco deployed a brush truck and four firefighters this week to assist with the wildfires in the Texas Panhandle.
According to Texas A&M Forest Service, the Smokehouse Creek fire in Hutchinson County is burning a total of 1,075,000 acres across Texas and Oklahoma and is 3% contained.
Since Feb. 25, the Texas A&M Forest Service said they tackled 56 wildfires, covering over 1,256,328 acres. The Frisco firefighters will meet up with multiple strike teams to battle the wildfires in the panhandle.
Frisco Fire Marshal and Public Information Officer Kelly Kistner told Local Profile the firefighters volunteered for the special assignment and were chosen based on training and availability The four are expected to fight the fires for two weeks.
"The Frisco FD has a number of specialized wildland firefighters," Kistner said. "These firefighters have training related to wildland firefighting, in addition to their training in fighting fires in structures and their EMS training."
Presently, three active wildfires are reported in the Texas panhandle: the Grape Vine Creek fire in Gray County spans 30,000 acres with 60% containment; the Windy Deuce fire in Moore County covers 142,000 acres with 30% containment; and the Magenta fire in Oldham County spans 2,500 acres with 65% containment.
“Strong winds and warm temperatures have resulted in grasses drying across many portions of Texas,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Fire Chief Wes Moorehead. “As firefighters continue to suppress active fires, we urge Texans to be cautious with any outdoor activity that may cause a spark.”
Texas A&M Forest Service warns Texans gearing up to celebrate Texas Independence Day on March 2 should exercise caution during festivities involving fireworks or any outdoor activities, with fire danger high across the state.
Around 90% of wildfires stem from human actions, with holidays and celebrations amplifying the risk of fire outbreaks.
“Let’s celebrate Texas Independence Day with pride and responsibility,” said Karen Stafford, Texas A&M Forest Service fire prevention coordinator. “This weekend, let’s honor our heritage by preventing fires. Do your part to prevent wildfires and be safe this holiday.”
