TDEM Activates Additional State Wildfire Response Resources Ahead of Fire Danger

TDEM Activates Additional State Wildfire Response Resources Ahead of Fire Danger

AUSTIN - The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM) announced today that the agency has activated additional state wildfire response resources in anticipation of increased wildfire danger expected across the western half of the state tomorrow.

“With an increased risk of wildfire danger in the forecast, the State of Texas has prepared wildfire response resources to support local firefighters with any fire suppression needs,” said Texas Emergency Management Chief Nim Kidd. “Texans are urged to avoid activities that cause sparks and follow instructions from local emergency officials. Please join me in thanking the first responders working around the clock to protect life and property during this holiday season.”

According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, increased wildfire potential is across large portions of the state including the Panhandle, South Plains, Permian Basin, West Texas, and Hill Country regions. Dry, dormant grasses, near-record high temperatures, and elevated to critical fire weather conditions will heighten the risk of wildfire activity across these areas.

The following state wildfire response resources have been activated by TDEM to support local wildfire response operations:

• Texas A&M Forest Service: State and local firefighters through the Texas Intrastate Fire Mutual Aid System (TIFMAS) totaling more than 160 firefighters and support personnel, as well as more than 35 pieces of equipment such as fire engines, bulldozers, and motor graders; 9 federally-contracted firefighting aircraft, including a large airtanker, six single engine air tankers for retardant drops, and two air attack platforms for surveillance and spotting
• ‍Texas Department of State Health Services (Texas Emergency Medical Task Force): Wildland Fire Support Packages including paramedics, ambulances, and all-terrain vehicles

Texans can access wildfire tips and safety information at tfsweb.tamu.edu and TexasReady.gov. Texans can find general disaster preparedness information at tdem.texas.gov/prepare.