2 minute read
Jarrell Firefighters Lead Wilco Grass Fire Response
by Charlotte Kovalchuk • photos courtesy ESD #5
When a grass fire started on Cobb Creek Road in Georgetown on July 19, more than 25 agencies from Williamson, Bell, and Travis counties and the state teamed up on the extinguishing effort that Jarrell Fire Chief Ron Stewart calls an example of successful planning, training, and coordination.
Jarrell Fire Captain Matt Whisenant and Jarrell Fire Marshall Bobby Belcher took initial command since the fire, which burned a total of 286 acres, was in Jarrell’s response district. Chief Stewart says, “The planning, cooperation, collaboration, and successful execution from fire, law enforcement, EMS, forestry service, office of emergency management, and dispatchers illustrated the day-in-and-day-out commitment our first responders have for those we serve. The system worked as practiced and planned to work, and on behalf of Jarrell Fire and Rescue we thank each person who came running to assist when we called. We can assure them that we will do the same when they call for help from us.”
Chief Stewart thanked citizens and businesses that supported their fire crews, including Staccato 2011 firearms company, which provided rehab areas and food, as well as 1-800 BoardUp and H-E-B on Williams and DB Wood, which provided supplies for the crews. “And our citizens, like always, provided us with donations of food, water, and Gatorade to keep the crews going.”
FIRE SAFETY
As the cause of the Cobb Creek Fire was sparks from a welding tool, Chief Stewart urges residents to follow safety precautions when it comes to hot work in these dry conditions. Additionally, the current burn ban prohibits burning in all areas of Williamson County. The order urges caution when it comes to outdoor welding, cutting, or grinding.
Plus:
Ensure the metal work area is free of vegetation.
Notify the local fire department of planned metal work.
Have a fire extinguisher nearby.
Have another person on the lookout for sparks that could cause a fire.
