Texas A&M Forest Service fire crews did not respond to any new fires on May 25. However, they continue to fight the Mesquite Heat Fire burning in Abilene, located about 180 miles away from Dallas.
The Allen Fire Department Chief, Jonathan Boyd, told NBC 5 that he sent two firefighters to the Mesquite Heat Fire.
“It’s the core function of what we do,” Boyd said. “We all got in this business to help people, and it’s a great opportunity to help where there is a real need. Every day, whether they come here or they get deployed to west Texas, they’re all in it for the right reasons. That’s kind of a theme amongst all firefighters.”
He added that his department has been helping fight wildfires across Texas since January.
As of May 26, the Texas A&M Forest Service reported the fire was 74% contained after scorching over 10,960 acres.
As Allen Fire sent crews to Abilene, Dallas Fire-Rescue sent three teams to help with the Coconut Fire near Wichita Falls.
Dallas Fire-Rescue Deputy Chief Scott Pacot, who also acts as the wildland coordinator, shared a similar sentiment to Boyd’s.
“It’s that basis of wanting to help and going out to these disasters that we know something big is going on,” Pacot said. “We have this huge opportunity to help. Everyone is on board for that.”
As of May 22, the Coconut Fire was considered 100% contained after burning more than 28,000 acres, according to Texas A&M and El Paso Times.
Lake Worth Police Chief J.T. Manoushagian stated he has an officer with family near the Mesquite Heat Fire. Lake Worth is a suburb of Fort Worth.
“Of course, she’s here in Fort Worth,” Manoushagian said. “She’s worried about her family. She’s wondering, ‘What can I do. How can I help?'”
According to Manoushagian, the Lake Worth Police Department has been collecting donations for first responders fighting the fires since May 19. He told NBC 5 that wipes, sports drinks, and water are the most needed supplies.
“This completely embodies what it means to be neighbors taking care of neighbors,” Manoushagian said. “Being in Lake Worth, we are kind of the furthest west of our DFW area law enforcement. We kind of see ourselves as a gateway out to Abilene. When you drive through our city, you see the exit that says ‘Abilene.’ So, we do feel that connection.”
The Lake Worth Police Department is accepting donation drop-offs 24/7.
