Fayetteville library estimates $250,000 in repairs after fire

On Sunday night, the Fayetteville Public Library suffered from a rooftop fire. The culprit? The Fayetteville fire marshal says it was an ember from a smudge pot left on outdoor rocks used by the volunteer library beekeeper. Executive Director David Johnson says what could have been a complete nightmare has resolved quickly with the help of a strong team and community members. Johnson has worked for the Fayetteville Public Library for over 12 years. He says this was the first time he's experienced a disaster, but he adds that uncertainty quickly turned to confidence with the help of the community. "I can't say enough about our police and fire departments. Everyone in this community should rest assured that they are top notch professionals, and they reflect the leadership of both of those organizations," Johnson said.
KFSM-TV CBS 5 Fort Smith

Monticello replaces oldest fire engine, no longer fighting fires like its 1999

VIDEO: For 25 years, one truck has been the first line of defense against fires in Monticello. Engine 1 is a 1999 model fire truck. It was the last one bought by Monticello Fire Department Chief Eric Chisom’s father, the former chief. In 2024, any nostalgia for the look or feel cannot replace the most important part of a firefighter’s job: reliability. Chisom said something with the vehicle has always needed attention lately. “The alternator actually went out when we were at a fire,” Chisom said. “While you’re pumping water with a truck and your alternator goes out, you look at the dials on your truck, now you can’t spray water.” It’s no secret it’s showing its age. A quarter century is longer than some people protected by the fire department can remember. “I wasn’t born then,” University of Arkansas at Monticello student T.J. Fields admitted.
KLRT-TV FOX 16 Little Rock