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COLUMBUS – The Columbus Volunteer Fire Department successfully put out a structure fire on New World Drive with the help of the Weimar Volunteer Fire Department. The combined force prevented the exterior from being engulfed in the flames. There was no physical damage to the family residing in the structure, but the fire resulted in a total loss of the interior.
The rash of fires in the area and surrounding counties have fire departments stretched thin throughout Texas as the dry and hot conditions of an extended drought have resulted in many grass, brush and structural fires. Columbus VFD initially reached out to Frelsburg’s department, and then to Bernardo’s department for assistance with the New World Drive fire. Unfortunately, both volunteer departments were needed to respond to fires within their own counties and could not provide support. Weimar VFD responded to Columbus’ request and arrived on scene to assist with the extinguishing efforts.
The two volunteer fire departments responded to the situation along with the emergency response of Columbus PD, Fire Marshal Brent Gorman, Colorado County EMS and OEM as well as the City of Columbus Utility Department.
With the destruction of the entire interior, Columbus VFD has reached out to The American Red Cross and God’s Corner Store in Columbus to assist with supplying the family with donations to help them recover from their losses.
The Columbus Police Department released a social media post advising those who would like to donate money or clothing to deliver their donations to God’s Corner Store located at 1010 Milam St. The requested clothing donations are for three adult women, one adult man and five children from toddler-age to high school. Please refer to the CPD post on Facebook for the exact size requests or call Dale at (979)-733-6645 for more information.
With record heat still affecting many parts of Texas, the Colorado County Office of Emergency Management continues to emphasize the importance of not burning trash or wood piles for any reason during the drought-like conditions afflicting the area.
