VIDEO: East Texas is experiencing unexpected fires fueled by extreme heat and dry conditions, forcing firefighters to stay alert around the clock and remain hydrated and prepared, as new fires can spark at any time. East Texas firefighters have to stay ready for anything.
Fire Marshal Joey Hooton with the Tyler Fire department says hydration is key when working under these conditions. โWe need to get these guys hydrated, keep them hydrated and so that theyโre ready for the next call that they have,โ says Hooton. According to Battalion Chief Cordell Parker, firefighters have been fighting fires all day Wednesday, including a fire near a wooded area in South Tyler. โWe have determined it was three fires located in these woods,โ says Parker. โTheyโve combined now to one fire.โ The fire burned about 3.2 acres and with firefighters operating under extreme heat conditions, efforts are being made to keep them safe and hydrated. โIโm monitoring their time on scene and then Iโm sending them to rehab,โ says Parker. But itโs not just any rehab, itโs a rehab bus, made specifically for them.
