A grass fire approached several homes and a school in Parker County on Wednesday.
The fire occurred on August 3 in Millsap, a community in western Parker County. According to CBS 11, one building was consumed in the blaze.
There were no reports of injury or death from the fire.
Firefighters from multiple departments across the county working together were able to stop the fire from reaching 19 other residencies and Millsap Elementary School.
In a Facebook post, the Millsap Fire Department said, “At the peak of the fire, we had over 40 apparatus, two dozers, and two helicopters working to control the fire.”
The Millsap Fire Department also thanked Millsap ISD for giving first responders use of the elementary school cafeteria as a command center and rehabilitation area. They thanked community members for bringing drinking water and food.
The fire burned along Wilson Bend Road near Highway 113 near the school. School district sporting events were canceled that night.
According to the Texas A&M Forest Service, the fire was contained on August 3 after it spread to cover 50 acres.
The Dallas Express previously reported that fires this year were going to be more prevalent than in any fire season since 2011. Because of dangerous conditions, Parker County, like much of Texas, is under a burn ban. Violating a burn ban is a class C misdemeanor and punishable by a fine not exceeding $500.
The Millsap Fire Department urges anyone who sees smoke or fire to call 911 immediately. “The smallest spark can cause a major incident. We haven’t had conditions this bad since 2011.” The department concluded, “Please pray for rain and be cautious … Every second counts.”
