Roganville fire was started by a downed powerline Sunday evening

8-27-23

Roganville VFD and East End VFD were joined by the Texas Forest Service Sunday night to quickly shut down a powerline fire.

Courtesy RVFD Chief Mike Smith

By Sandi Saulsbury

A blaze that could have become a massive situation with higher-than-normal winds was hit by local departments and quickly knocked down.

Sunday evening at 6:11, Roganville Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to a ground cover fire on County Road 425. They responded with 2 brush trucks, 2 fire engines, 2 tankers, 1 rescue unit, and 15 personnel. East End VFD was called out for mutual aid.

RVFD Chief Mike Smith said that upon arrival, his team discovered that a tree had fallen across a power line and approximately 2 acres of heavily wooded area was already involved in flames. Units made a quick attack from both the east and west sides of the fire and were able to stop the spread.

Smith said, “I have spoken with a lot of old timers who can't ever remember a drought of this magnitude. Just please be mindful that ALL outdoor burning is prohibited and that all fire departments in the area are worn down so please help us by not burning. Any donations are needed and appreciated. Also, if anyone is interested in joining our team, come see us on Monday nights. We would love to have you.”

The Texas Forest Service arrived and plowed a break around the area. Smith said, “We mopped up the remaining hot spots and were able to clear the scene around 9:30.”