Texas Forest Service to send checks to fire departments that helped fight 2005-2006 wildfires.
According to a press release from the TFS, several Upshur county fire departments will receive checks for expenses they incurred assisting the service battle the wildfires of 2005-06.
Excerpt of the release:
Dec. 23, 2008 --COLLEGE STATION, Texas—Texas Forest Service is delivering a little holiday cheer to more than 900 Texas fire departments. Through a legislative grant, TFS is distributing $5.7 million to departments that helped fight wildfires during the 2005-06 wildfire season.
House Bill 15 of the 80th Texas Legislature provided funds to help pay for the cost of fighting wildfires statewide between Dec. 1, 2005, and Sept. 18, 2006. A portion of these funds were designated to help local fire departments recover some of the expenses incurred during that time period.
Upshur county fire departments receiving money include:
* Bettie VFD
* City of Big Sandy VFD
* Gilmer Fire Department
* Harmony VFD
* Ore City VFD
* Pleasant Grove VFD
* East Mountain VFD
* Ewell VFD
A listing of all departments receiving payments can be found at http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/article.aspx?id=6366
Read More...
Summary only...
Many areas across the state will be in danger of accidental wildfires this month as some Texans celebrate the holiday season with fireworks.
Dec. 16, 2008 - COLLEGE STATION, Texas — Fireworks are commonly linked to Christmas and New Year festivities, but Texas Forest Service warns the outcome can be disastrous if proper safety precautions are not taken.
“Many Texans will be using fireworks to celebrate Christmas and the New Year,” Texas Forest Service Fire Operations Chief Mark Stanford said. “TFS wants Texans to use fireworks safely in order to protect themselves and to avoid accidentally starting wildfires.”
Under Texas law, county government officials have the authority to restrict certain types of aerial fireworks when drought conditions exist or when hazardous fuel conditions are present during the winter months. County officials also consider drought conditions when determining outdoor burn bans for their counties. Texas Forest Service does not make decisions regarding restrictions on fireworks or outdoor burning bans. The state agency does, however, provide drought condition information to counties.
Currently, many parts of Texas are in danger of accidental wildfire because of continued drought. Most of Central and West Texas is experiencing drier than normal conditions. In Southeast Texas, debris from Hurricane Ike and vegetation killed by saltwater is contributing to the problem, as is cured debris that remains from Hurricane Rita.
Tips for the safe use of fireworks:
* Adhere to all county and city fireworks laws.
* Use fireworks outdoors away from dry grass and buildings.
* Read firework labels and use only as directed. DO NOT ALTER THE PRODUCTS.
* Use only with adult supervision.
* Keep water, wet towels and a garden hose nearby.
* Allow fireworks to cool completely before handling.
* Discard used fireworks into a bucket of water.
For more information, go to Texas Forest Service website at http://texasforestservice.tamu.edu/main/default.aspx.
Read More...
Summary only...
