Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Tommy Thornton Way
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  12 Aug 2008 – 18 Aug 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 18 August 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842 
      chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

13 Aug, firefighters were dispatched to grass fire on FM 368 at FM 2345, two units responded to the 25 acre fire.

13 Aug, firefighters were called to an arching transformer in on Avenue C near 6th Street, power was out to some homes in the area but no other hazard was present, the situation was handled off to Oncor.

14 Aug, firefighters were called mutual aid to a grass fire on FM 171 near Emmert  Road in Cameron Gardens, units from Wichita County and Clay County fought the blaze for about 2 hours before controlling the 75 acre fire.  One house was threatened, but firefighters stopped to fire before it reached the home.

14 Aug, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, the topic of the evening was water shuttle operations led by Lt Pancho Vela.

16 Aug, firefighters were called to a possible bicycle accident on FM 369 near Roller Road, crews arrived in the area, but no accident was found.

17 Aug, firefighters were called to a structure fire in the 2600 block of East Road, the vacant structure was fully involved on arrival of the first units.  Crews from Friberg Cooper, Cameron Gardens, Wichita East and Burkburnett battled the blaze for about two hours, the home was a total loss.  This fire is listed as suspicious and turned over to the Sheriff’s department for further investigation.

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5 Aug, firefighters were called to a possible fire in Friendship Park in the early morning for a light pole on fire, on arrival it was discovered to be bugs around a light pole causing concern that it was on fire.  There was no fire.

6 Aug, firefighters were called to a possible car fire on the Red River Expressway near In Style Real Estate, on arrival it was discovered that the vehicle was only over heating.

7 Aug, the department conducted a regular business meeting at Station 3, one of the main topics of discussion was the change of call signs for all the department grass trucks.  In the past these vehicles had been referred to as Mini Pumper 3, Truck 2, and Truck 3 in keeping with the National Incident Management System vehicle typing, these type vehicles will be referred to as Brush vehicles.  The new apparatus call signs are Brush 1, Brush 2 and Brush 3.  New vehicle markings are in place and the change took effect this date.

8 Aug, firefighters were called to a grass fire on FM 368 and FM 2345, three units works for about 3 hours to control the blaze.

9 Aug, firefighters were called to a dumpster on fire at the citizen collection point on Fairview Road west of town.  The large dumpster was fully involved on arrival, the crew worked for about 30 minutes to extinguish the blaze.

10 Aug, firefighters were awoken early Sunday to a mutual aid request from Cameron Gardens VFD for a grass fire and structure fire on FM 171.  One unit was dispatched and on scene for about an hour before returning to the city.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Tommy Thornton Way
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  29 Jul 2008 – 4 Aug 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 4 August 2008
Contact:     Rodney Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842  
      chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

29 Jul, firefighters were called to lines down and a small fire 10 miles west of town on FM 240, one unit responded fire was out on arrival and they stood by until electric company were on scene for the lines.

30 Jul, firefighters were called to a pit fire on East Road, the fire was out on arrival and the Sheriff’s Office notified for possible burn ban violations.

31 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire in the fields between FM 1177 and Bailey Road, three units responded controlling the blaze in about 30 minutes.

31 Jul, the department conducted a regular training session at station 3, newer members received a class on National Incident Management System and the other members trained with a Rapid Attack Monitor flowing water and practicing with setting the unit up.

2 Aug, firefighters were called to a medical emergency in the 8400 block of Sandy Road, they assisted until AMR arrived on scene.

2 Aug, firefighters were requested mutual aid to a grass fire on FM 890 at Upper Charlie Road, one unit responded and assisted units from Cameron Gardens, Wichita East, Friberg Cooper, Iowa Park and Charlie Thornberry fire departments.

2 Aug, later that afternoon firefighters were again requested for a mutual aid response back to FM 890, the fire had gotten out of the control lines and continued spreading north, burning  onto Sheppard AFB.  Crews from around the county worked for about 3 hours along with units from Sheppard to extinguish the fire.

3 Aug, firefighters were requested to a grass fire at FM 368 and Morgan Rd, one unit responded, no fire was found, and it was determined to be smoke from the Parker Ranch and Wylie Rd fire.

4 Aug, firefighters were requested to a grass fire in the 9000 Block of Perkins Rd, one unit responded, it was determined the owner was burning in violation of the burn ban.

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22 Jul, firefighters were called to an alarm activation in the 7700 block of Carriage Lane, crews investigated determining the cause of the alarms was dust created from cleaning.

22 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Ramming Road, the fire which burned about 75 acres was under control within an hour.

22 Jul, firefighters were called to a medical emergency on FM 240 at Bacon Switch, AMR was on scene on arrival of fire crews.

23 Jul, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire on Simon Road, the fire near the river bottom burned about 100 acres with crews working through the afternoon to control the blaze.

23 Jul, firefighters were called back to the Simon Road fire, oil flow lines had continued to burned and reignited grass in the area.

24 Jul, firefighters were called to the Burkburnett Residences Apartments building 600 for alarms sounding and smoke in the apartment.  Investigation revealed an electric fan had overheated creating the situation.

24 Jul, the department conducted a work night to load additional 5 inch supply line on both Engine 1 and Engine 3.

25 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire at the end of Gentry, three units responded with about 100 acres burning in all.

26 Jul, firefighters were requested for a mutual aid response to Electra for a large grass fire, one unit and three firefighters worked on the incident for about 2 hours.

27 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire on East Road which extended to a structure, the fire was stopped at the rear of the structure with minimal damage to the home.

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17 Jul, firefighters were dispatched to the 1400 block of Sioux Lane for smoke in the structure, on arrival crews investigated the situation, smoke had cleared from the home and most probably the cause was from the air conditioning unit.

17 Jul, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, the main focus of the training was introductory firefighting class for the departments newer members.

18 Jul, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire on I-44 at near the rest areas, the fire was located on Shallowfield Road, and burned about 5 acres back off the road in a difficult area to reach.  Three units worked the fire for about an hour before it was controlled.

18 Jul, Chief Ryalls and Safety Officer Nauman and their wives attended an appreciate dinner hosted by the Elks Lodge in Wichita Falls for all volunteer fire departments in Wichita, Clay, Archer and Montague.  This event was also the Elks 100th Anniversary, a special “Thanks” to all Elks around the area and our elected leaders for an excellent meal and service for the occasion.

20 Jul, firefighters were called to the 700 block of Laurel for a fire alarm sounding in a home, crews investigated and were un able to determine a cause for the alarm, situation was turned over to the homeowner.

21 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire in the area of 6th and 7th Streets along the railroad tracks, crews encounters two separate fires caused by the train as it moved through the area.  They were called back to the same area an hour later for some flare ups.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Tommy Thornton Way
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  8 Jul 2008 – 14 Jul 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 14 July 2008
Contact:     Rodney Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 642-5923 
      chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

8 Jul, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Holman Road, the fire which involved approximately 10 acres was contained in about an hour.

8 Jul, firefighters were called to a mailbox on fire in the 100 block of Mills as a result of fireworks being set off in the box.  The fire was out on arrival and the situation turned over to the Police Department.

10 Jul, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, firefighters practiced with incident operations and command and control.

11 Jul, firefighters stood by for EMS while they answered a call in the ETJ off of Gresham Road.

12 Jul, firefighters were requested mutual aid for a grass fire on FM 171 at Emmert Road, one unit responded with 3 firefighters, assisting departments from around the county.
Note:  To contact the fire department for non-emergency issues please call 569-3553, for non-emergency police issues please call 569-2231.  If you have any emergency dial 911.

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3 Jul – a regular business meeting was held at station 3, one new member James Bavousett was accepted to the department roll.  In other business, the department discussed activities for the holiday weekend and committee actions during the last month.

4 Jul – firefighters and families met at station 3 throughout the day for food and fellowship, City Council Members Scott Dolan, Charlene Lewis, Mayor Carl Law and his wife Eloise, and County Commissioner Pat Norris visited with firefighters during the afternoon.  Retirees Noah Schrimphser , and Hank Plumley and his wife also were in attendance during the day.

4 Jul – firefighters responded to vehicle fire on I-44 service road at East Road, a vehicle with another in tow was fully involved on arrival.  Crews extinguished the fire preventing it from spreading to the towed vehicle.  A mechanical failure in the engine compartment was the most probably cause of the fire, the vehicle was a total loss.

4 Jul – firefighters responded to a grass fire first reported off of FM 369, but actually ended up being out of our district on FM 2345, however, firefighters handled the 5 acre fire as Electra firefighters were out on three separate fires at the same time.

4 Jul – as the evening set in 20 firefighters manned apparatus and disbursed around the area to standby as 4th of July celebrators set of to demonstrate their independence.  Crews responded during the event to a fire on Sandy Road, and Gresham Road and several small grass fires on Vaughn Road.  The most serious fire was a structure fire in a storage building behind a residence in the 100 block of Linden, the building was well involved as crews arrived on scene and quickly extinguished.  The situation was turned over to the police department to investigate a cause. 

6 Jul – firefighters were called to a possible structure fire in the 700 block of Avenue E, on arrival firefighters found a gas feed fire behind the stove, securing the gas to extinguish the fire.  Damage was limited to the stove itself and the situation was turned over to the occupant.

6 Jul – firefighters were requested by Cameron Gardens VFD for a mutual aid response to FM 890 and FM 171 for a grass fire. One unit and three personnel responded working on scene for about an hour and a half.

7 Jul – firefighters were called to a possible structure fire in the 500 block of Glendale, on arrival crews located an individual burning insulation from wire with a controlled burn in a pit.  Texas Commission on Environmental Quality Outdoor burning laws specifically prohibits burning of electrical insulation and outlines specific guidelines when burning in allowed, such as the requirement that burning be conducted outside the corporate limits of any city.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Tommy Thornton Way
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  17 June 2008 – 23 June 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 23 June 2008
Contact:     Len Nauman
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 642-5923 
        chief@burkfire.org
                    www.burkfire.org

17 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire near the rest area on I44.  The fire burned about 1 acre.

18 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire at FM 2345 and FM 368.  The fire burned about 3 acres.

20 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire on Reilly Ranch Loop.  The fire burned about 300 acres. 

22 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire on Reilly Ranch Loop and Haley Rd.  The fire burned about 25 acres. 

23 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire at Bacon Switch Rd and Hwy 240.  The fire burned about 1 acre. 

19 June, the department conducted a regular training session where crews received instructions in foam operations and hose handling techniques.  In addition, a vendor demonstrated a new attack monitor and foam pack to the Department. 
The department received a press release from the Texas Forest Service reminding everyone that the 4th of July celebrations provide colorful fun, but fireworks, if not used properly, can turn into a dangerous situation.  Many parts of Wichita County have fuels that are easily ignited.  The Texas Forest Service and the Department recommend that if you’re planning to celebrate the 4th of July with fireworks, you take the following precautions.  1) Adhere to County and City fireworks laws and restrictions. 2) Use fireworks outdoors and away from dry grass and buildings. 3) Follow the instructions labels on the fireworks on how to properly discharge them.  4) Make sure children are supervised by an adult when using fireworks, 5) Keep a bucket of water, wet towels, or a garden hose nearby. 5) Discard used fireworks, never try to relight them.  6) Allow fireworks to cool thoroughly before handling to avoid possible burn injuries.  The Department wishes everyone a safe and happy 4th of July.  

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  10 June 2008 – 16 June 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 16 June 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842 
        chief@burkfire.org
                    www.burkfire.org

12 Jun, responded to a grass fire on Daniels Road at I-44, fire was out on arrival.  Dump trucks off loading gravel contacted electrical high lines and sparked the fire.

12 Jun, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, the topic of the evening was car fires  with crews practicing extinguishing techniques.

13 Jun, Crews were dispatched to a grass fire off of Bohner Road, the fire was located deep inside a wooded area off of the road and had pretty much extinguished itself when crews arrived.  Crews were on scene until the area was completely out.

14 Jun, crews were dispatched to a grass fire on Easter Road as a heavy storm blew into the area, the fire most likely started by lightning was quickly extinguished by heavy rains.

14 Jun, crews were requested mutual aid to a large grass fire in Clay county south of Henrietta, the crew of three dispatched out just before midnight and returned around 5 in the morning.

16 Jun, crews were requested mutual aid by Wichita East VFD to a large grass fire in eastern Wichita County off of Hampton Road, one unit responded and assisted departments from Wichita and Clay County throughout the afternoon.

16 Jun, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire west of Burkburnett on FM 368 past Reilly Ranch Loop, units worked to quickly control the fire most likely sparked by electrical lines.

16 Jun, crews were dispatched to a grass fire on Reilly Road off of FM 369 near the prison, the call was actually in the Iowa Park VFD district and Burkburnett units were canceled enroute.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  3 June 2008 – 9 June 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 9 June 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842 
        chief@burkfire.org
                    www.burkfire.org

3 June, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire at FM 368 and Reilly Ranch Loop.  The fire burned about 25 acres.

3 June, firefighters were dispatched to a structure fire on Schmoker Rd and 368.  The fire was actually smoke and flame from the grass fire on FM 368 and Reilly Ranch Loop.

4 June, in the early morning firefighters and EMS were called to a vehicle and pedestrian accident on Clara Church Rd and Hwy 240.   After the DPS investigation was completed, firefighters were called back later in the morning to complete a cleanup of the scene.

4 June, firefighters were called to a grass fire at FM 368 and Walker Rd.  The fire burned about 35 acres

4 June, firefighters were called to extinguish a ditch fire at Daniels Rd and 240.

4 June, firefighters were called to extinguish a tree stump fire at 1200 block of Bishop.

5 June, firefighters were called to 600 block of Preston for a structure fire. The fire was located on the deck of the structure and quickly extinguished, a pan with hot coals from a grill caused the fire. 

5 June, firefighters were called to the 200 Block of S Ave D for a tree limb that had fallen on a vehicle. 

5 June, firefighters were called to a grass fire on FM N 368 and FM 2345.  The fire burned about 40 acres.

5 June, firefighters were called for mutual aid to Electra to assist with a grass fire at Hwy 240 and FM 1175.

5 June, firefighters were called to a small grass fire at Hwy 240 and FM 2368. 

5 June, firefighters were called to a structure fire on Quail Run.  The fire actually was lighting strikes in the area that made it appear as if a structure was on fire.

5 June, firefighters were called for a 3rd floor smoke alarm at First Baptist Church.  The alarm was caused by a leak from the roof running down into an electrical breaker box. 

5 June, firefighters were called to the Burkburnett Middle School for a smell of smoke.  The smell was determined to be caused by a malfunctioning air conditioner unit.

5 June, firefighters assisted the Burkburnett Police Department and other City workers in responding to numerous reports of downed power lines after Thursday night storm. Firefighters assisted in clearing limbs from the streets and providing storm damage reports.

 
6 June, firefighters responded to the intersection of Linden Ln and Terrace for a downed power line.  Firefighters remained on scene until ONCOR’s arrival. 

6 June, firefighters responded to the 600 block of Louana for an over fire.  The fire was quickly extinguished. 

6 June, firefighters responded to Citi Bank for an air conditioner unit on fire in the rear of the structure.  The fire was out on arrival and the unit was secured.

7 June, firefighters were called to Sheppard Rd and Rosewood to clean up the area after a vehicle accident. 

7 June, firefighters were called to a grass fire at FM2345 and Prairie Cottage Rd.  The fire burned about 15 acres. 

5 June the Department conducted a business meeting.  The department voted on two new members, Cody Burkes and JJ Cendroski while accepted as regular members.

7 – 8 June, Chief Ryalls, Firefighter of the Year Paul McBroom and Retired Firefighter and Past President of the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshal’s Association Billy Ray Mize attended the State Firemen’s and Fire Marshals’ Association convention at Beaumont, Texas.  Mr. McBroom was recognized at the Convention as the Red River District’s Firefighter of the Year and nominee for the State Firefighter of the Year.  

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For Immediate Release
Monday 2 Jun 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

27 May, firefighters were called to downed power lines in the 200 block of Dogwood and off of South Oklahoma Cutoff after a brief storm blew through the area.  TXU was notified and the scenes were cleared.

28 May, firefighters responded to a fire alarm activation in the 600 block of Magnolia, crews were canceled enroute due to an accidental alarm.

29 May, firefighters responded to a fire alarm activation at the Head Start facility on 7th Street, the building was checked and situation turned over to building manager.

29 May, the department held a training session at Station 3, the topic was certification for CPR taught by Firefighter Scot Hayter. 

30 May, firefighters responded to an alarm activation at Evergreen Nursing Home on 7th Street, arriving to investigate the situation, crews determine the cause was a leaking sprinkler system, system was reset and maintenance personnel notified.

31 May, firefighters were called to a possible fire on the side of the road on Ashton Road at Gilbert Creek, on arrival crews found a pile of trash burning and extinguished the fire.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  6 May 2008 – 12 May 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 12 May 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

8 May, the department conducted a training session with search and rescue techniques being the topic for the evening, crews practiced these techniques at fire station 2 on N Avenue B utilizing a smoke machine to simulate actual smoke conditions.

9 May, firefighters were toned for a possible fire in the 100 block of South Berry, on arrival it was discovered it was a barbeque grill on the carport.

12 May, firefighters were called to a possible structure fire in the 1100 block of Ruby, on arrival crews discovered the cause for alarm was a malfunctioning water heater, the area was checked and crews cleared from the scene.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  29 Apr 2008 – 5 May 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 5 May 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

30 Apr, firefighters were called to assist EMS during multiple in town medical calls, firefighters responded to 1st Baptist Church for a fall victim.

1 May, the department conducted a special training session prior to the business meeting to review proper procedures for the new Air Bags added to the department’s inventory, these bags are used for lifting heavy objects in rescue situations.  These air bags were purchased through a grant from the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation – Rural Fire Fund.  After the training session, the business meeting commenced with general discussions concerning upcoming training opportunities and planning for equipment purchases to fulfill a grant received from the Wichita Falls Area Community Foundation – Carlisle Priddy Donor Advised Fund.

3-4 May, several members of the department participated in the 35th Annual Wichita Falls Area Fire School at the WFFD training grounds.  Department members along with 120 other firefighters from all around the area attending training in basic firefighting, auto extrication, hazardous materials, fire science, and search and rescue. 

3 May, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Carriage Lane, arriving on scene it was discovered this was a controlled burn, crews cleared the scene.

4 May, firefighters were called to a controlled burn which got out of control on Harris Road, arriving on scene firefighters determined the land owner had the fire back under control.  Firefighters cleared the scene and the land owner continued on with the controlled burn.

4 May, firefighters were called back a few hours later to the same area on Harris Road as the fire was again out of the control lines, control was regained by the time crews arrived; however one unit stayed on scene to ensure complete extinguishment.

5 May, firefighters were toned to assist EMS during multiple in town medical calls but were canceled before arriving.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  15 Apr 2008 – 21 Apr 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 21 Apr 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

17 Apr,  the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, multiple training sessions occurred including rescue tools, hose handling, SCBA, and ladder operations. 

18 Apr, crews responded to a possible fire at the Burkburnett RV Park, the fire was in a microwave and under control as crews arrived.

18 Apr, firefighters were called to a fire in the backyard of a residence behind In Style Realty off of the service road; the fire which is illegal was extinguished and turned over to Burkburnett Police.

19 Apr, firefighters were called to a fire in the 800 block of Sheppard Road, the fire was in a rubbish pile behind the residences and extinguished.

21 Apr, firefighters were called to a medical emergency on FM 369 4 mile north of the Prison, crews assisted with one patient until further assistance arrived.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  8 Apr 2008 – 14 Apr 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 14 Apr 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

10 Apr, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, the topic for the evening was live fire training with crews conducting burn operations in the department smoke house.  Crews were dispatched during the training to a grass fire on Shallowfield Road, on arrival crews found about 5 acres burning on an oil lease, two units worked for about an hour to extinguish the blaze.

11 Apr, firefighters were called to a possible structure fire at the Park Street Apartments, on arrival firefighters found the fire already extinguished.  The fire was from an unattended candle, with minimal damage to contents only.

14 Apr, Wichita County Commissioner’s lifted the burn ban this morning, for residents outside the city limits normal outdoor burning rules apply which include notifying fire dispatch at 569-2231 before conducting any burn.  Outdoor burning of trash is prohibited.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  1 Apr 2008 – 7 Apr 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 7 Apr 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

3 Apr, the department conducted a regular business meeting at station 3, members discussed details for the weekend events. 

5 Apr, department members entered a team in the Chili Cookoff as part of the Woodystock event that was staged north of Burkburnett on the river bottom.  Members assisted during the event with parking cars and providing medical support for the event.

5 Apr, firefighters were called to a possible vehicle accident on FM 368 near FM 240, the accident was located by DPS officers near Walker Road and FM 368 with no injuries reported. 

5 Apr, firefighters were called to an alarm activation at the Hampton Inn, a smoke detector was activated in the pool area most likely caused by humidity.  System was reset.

6 Apr, department members attended the West Texas Fireman’s and Fire Marshals Association (WTFFMA) convention in Wichita Falls at the Elk Lodge on Seymour Highway.  Chief Rodney Ryalls was named the Association president for the upcoming year and Firefighter Paul McBroom was named the 2007 Firefighter of the Year for the WTFFMA.  Landon Ryalls was recognized for his service as the district mascot for the previous year, he culminated his tenure with a drawing for a firefighter statue in which funds raised will be donated to MDA.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  25 Mar 2008 – 31 Mar 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 31 Mar 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

25 Mar, firefighters were called to a grass fire off of Bohner Road, crews arrived on scene to locate a medium size fire on the river bottom.  Multiple units from Burkburnett arrived on scene, and mutual aid from Friberg Cooper VFD was requested.  Units from both departments worked throughout the day on the fire before containing it around 7:00 PM.  Crews worked nearly 10 hours to quell the blaze.

25 Mar,  firefighters were called to a smell of smoke behind the home in the 700 block of Sycamore.  A smoldering cigarette was located which caused the alarm.

25 Mar, firefighters were called to a vehicle fire on FM 369 near 3rd Street, the fire was out on arrival.

27 Mar, the department conducted a regular training session, crews discussed the fires from the previous week as training to improve operations.  The session was cut short with a report of a grass fire on FM 369 2 miles north of the prison.  On scene crews found a fast moving fire that was involving other structures.  Units were able to get a rapid stop on the blaze and prevent it from reaching other structures in the area.  Iowa Park VFD responded as well, crews worked for about an hour to control the blaze. 

29 Mar, firefighters were called to a heater malfunction in the 900 block of Violet, the house was checked and cleared with power being secured to the heater.  Situation turned over to the homeowner.

31 Mar, firefighters were called to an early morning fire at the KOA campground on East 3rd Street.  On scene, firefighters found a 5th wheel travel trailer fully involved in fire.  The blaze was brought under control in about 15 minutes, no cause for the fire was determined although there was nothing suspicious concerning the situation.  The trailer was a total loss and no other trailers in the park were involved.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  18 Mar 2008 – 24 Mar 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 24 Mar 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842  
                   chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

18 Mar, the department held a special work session to help the Easter Bunny prepare the eggs for the Easter egg hunt on Saturday.   

20 Mar, the department responded to an apartment fire in the 900 block of Cheryl.  The fire was confined to one apartment and quickly contained with minor damage to the apartment.

20 Mar, after the fire the department conducted training on hose handling operations and care of protective equipment.

22 Mar, the department held its annual Easter egg hunt at Permian Park.  About 250 children attend the event.  Prize winners were Kaven Sugg, in the 0-3 age group; Jared Thome in the 5 to 7 age group and Brycen Arnold in the 6-8 age group.  Everyone had a good time.  Thank you to everyone that helped organize the event. 

22 Mar, the department responded to an alarm activation at the middle school.  No fire was found and the response terminated. 

22 Mar, the department responded to a one vehicle roll-over accident in Oklahoma.  One person was injured and transported to the hospital. 

24 Mar, the department responded to a structure fire in the 1200 block of Shady Lane.  The fire started in the attic.  The structure suffered extensive damage and was contained in about three and half hours. 

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13 Mar, the department conducted its regular training.  The class, conducted by Lt Scott White and Mr. Jared Judd covered burning operations in the wild land environment.  There were 18 firefighters present for the training which taught the concept of how to contain or stop a wild land fire using backburns on backfires, and the dangers associated with those operations.  

16 Mar, (morning) the department responded to a vehicle fire on the I44 Bridge.  The fire was caused by a blown engine and out on arrival. 

16 Mar (evening), the department responded to a vehicle fire in the 600 block of Meadow.  The fire was quickly extinguished.  

17 Mar the department responded to a pole fire at Slama and Thrift.  The fire was out on arrival.

NOTE:  The department will be conducting its annual Easter egg Hunt in the park on 22 March 2008 at 11:00 AM.  Please form up in front of Fire Station 3, 15 minutes early with the hunt beginning at 11:00 AM sharp.  Open for all children up to 8 years old.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  4 Mar 2008 – 10 Mar 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 10 Mar 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

6 Mar, the department conducted a regular business meeting at Station 3, one new member Chris Hill was brought on to the department, Richard Cleaver was brought on to regular membership from Associate status and Firefighter Alex Seward was placed to Associate status at his request.  In other business the department discussed its annual Easter Egg Hunt coming up on the 22nd of March and participation in a chili cook-off at WoodyStock 2008. Firefighter Brian Smith, Chairman of the department history committee gave a report on his research into significant incidents from the department’s past.  The committee is seeking old photos, memorabilia, and information on the whereabouts of department apparatus from the beginning years of the department.

9 Mar, Firefighters were called to a grass fire on Fairview Rd.  The fire burned about 10 acres, and was contained in about an hour.
NOTE:  The department will be conducting its annual Easter egg Hunt in the park on 22 March 2008 at 11:00 AM.  Please form up in front of Fire Station 3, 15 minutes early with the hunt beginning at 11:00 AM sharp.  Open for all children up to 8 years old.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  19 Feb 2008 – 25 Feb 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 25 Feb 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

21 Feb, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, members actually used the drill to conduct planning for the next few years.  A review of goals created by the department approximately 8 years ago showed the department’s progression over the last few years.  The session of brainstorming will serve as a basis to develop goals for the future.

22 Feb, firefighters were called to a fire at the new apartments behind the Hampton Inn, while enroute firefighters could see a column of smoke in the area; however arriving on scene the smoke had disappeared.  An investigation of the complex found a soot covered garage door on one of the 600 series apartments, handlines were pulled and firefighters forced entry to the garage to locate a fire in the front half of the garage.  The fire had been burning for sometime unnoticed, in fact the occupants were in the home and unaware of the fire until the fire department arrived.  The blaze was quickly extinguished and contained to the garage; however, the garage and a vehicle in the garage received significant damage.

23 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Reilly Ranch Loop, the blaze which burned approximately 3 acres was quickly contained.

25 Feb, firefighters were called to a vehicle fire on Cropper Road, on arrival no fire was located however, the vehicles battery had shorted out causing the alarm.

25 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Roller Road, enroute to the scene firefighters visualized a large flame front on with flames visible from town.  On scene the fire being feed by high winds was moving rapidly to the south, on the east flank of the fire new home construction was threatened, however firefighters preformed back burns to consume all un-burnt fuels.  The fire in all burned about 250 acres, Friberg Cooper VFD assisted on the fire as well as a bulldozer from County Pct 2.

25 Feb, during the fire south of town, firefighters were called to a strong smell of smoke in the 500 block of Avenue F.  Crews arrived determining the smoke was from a fire in Oklahoma that was blowing into the area.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  12 Feb 2008 – 18 Feb 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 18 Feb 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

12 Feb, firefighters from Burkburnett, Electra, and Friberg Cooper attended a Wildland training class hosted by Burkburnett VFD.  The training which runs through the 16th of February is the first of its kind in Wichita County.  The course leads to certification through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group is being taught by instructors from Texas Fire Resources.

13 Feb, firefighters were called to a mutual aid fire in Tillman County, OK for a large grass fire.  One unit and three firefighters responded to assist operating on scene for a few hours before returning to Burkburnett.

14 Feb, firefighters were called to a hazardous materials incident, odor of gas in the structure in the 200 block of South Avenue B.  The home was checked and situation turned back over to the home owner.

14 Feb, firefighters were called to a possible vehicle accident on I-44, crews were unable to locate the accident as reported in front of PPG.  Further investigation determined to accident was inside the city limits of Wichita Falls and their units were already on scene.
16 Feb, firefighters were called to a medial emergency on Haley Road west of town, crews assisted AMR.

17 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on County Road in front of the Boys and Girls Club, the fire was quickly extinguished.  Investigation of the area discovered fireworks in the area of origin indicating a possible cause for the fire.

17 Feb, firefighters were called to an alarm activation at the Hampton Inn, on arrival it was determine that personnel had determined the cause to be steam in the pool area.  A smoke detector was activated in that area due to steam created from the showers, fire department cleared the scene.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  5 Feb 2008 – 11 Feb 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 11 Feb 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

5 Feb, firefighters were called to a hazardous materials incident involving an anhydrous ammonia leaking as a result of a vehicle accident.  Crews assisted to clear the area and secure the leaking container.

5 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Muller Road between Slama and Fairview, one unit had the fire quickly contained.

6 Feb, firefighters were called to the 1000 block of Jan Lee for smoke coming from a house, on arrival crews determined that the smoke was coming from a barbeque grill behind the residence.

6 Feb, firefighters were requested for a mutual aid response to Dove Lane in Cameron Gardens, multiple departments from around the county responded to the structure fire which threatened another home in the area.

7 Feb, the department conducted a regular business meeting at Station 3, members discussed plans for the departments involvement in the upcoming “Woodystock” on the river bottom off of Third Street.  The department elected to become members of the Society for the Preservation & Appreciation of Antique Motor Fire Apparatus in America (SPAAMFAA), the history committee members are starting a search to trace the departments roots and possibly locate old photos, equipment and memorabilia.

8 Feb, firefighters were called to a medical emergency on FM 240 and East Road, AMR was on scene when crews arrived and transported the patient.

9 Feb, firefighters from Burkburnett, Electra, and Friberg Cooper attended a Wildland training class hosted by Burkburnett VFD.  The training which runs through the 16th of February is the first of its kind in Wichita County.  The course which leads to certification through the National Wildfire Coordinating Group is being taught by instructors from Texas Fire Resources.

10 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Schmoker Road at Sullivan Road, approximately 3 acres burned in the blaze which was quickly contained.

11 Feb, firefighters were called to a vehicle accident on FM 240 at FM 1177, crews assisted until AMR arrived to transport.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  29 Jan 2008 – 4 Feb 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 4 Feb 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

29 Jan, high winds blew through town sparking many grass fires keeping firefighters hoping.  Within an hours time, firefighters were called to a fires on West Sixth Street, the Ameron Plant, Reilly Ranch Loop west of town, and Carriage Lane east of town. 

29 Jan, firefighters were called to a fire alarm activation at the Ameron Plant on Ameron Road when a power fluctuation caused the alarm to sound.

29 Jan, firefighters were called to Hall Road and Van Low Road for a large grass fire that burned approximately 50 acres of land.  Iowa Park firefighters assisted with extinguishing this blaze.

30 Jan, firefighters were called to a medical emergency in the 7800 block of Burkburnett Road, crews assisted AMR.

30 Jan, firefighters were called to a grass fire on FM 368 at FM 1813, units from Friberg Cooper VFD assisted firefighters at this blaze that consumed about 100 acres.

31 Jan, firefighters were dispatched to a mutual aid request from Iowa Park FD for a grass fire on Highway 287 at Bell Road.  The fire which closed 287 for a period of time burned through a salvage yard destroying several storage buildings and equipment.  Firefighters from Electra, Kamay and Punkin Center were all on scene to assist Iowa Park with the blaze.

31 Jan, the department conducted a regular training session which involved handling “Large Diameter Hose” (LDH).  The department has added LDH as it’s primary supply line for water supply, the session included loading Engine 3 with 5” hose and appliances to support the larger hose.

1 Feb, firefighters were called to lines arching on West College by the tennis courts, crews secured the scene until Oncor arrived on scene.

1 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire under the north bound lane of the Red River Bridge, on arrival road crews had already extinguished the blaze.

2 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire in the 500 block of Harwell, the fire extended to an outside storage building but was contained before reaching any homes.

2 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Easter Road, the fire which consumed about 10 acres did involve some oilfield equipment.

3 Feb, firefighters were dispatched to a grass fire on Ramming Road, the fire was quickly contained.

3 Feb, as firefighters were returned from the fire on Ramming Road, they were dispatched to a grass fire at Hardin Elementary School on the playground.  The fire which threatened structures involving the “Little Red School House” was swiftly extinguished.

3 Feb, firefighters were called to a medical emergency in the 2500 block of Holman Road, crews treated the individual until AMR arrived to transport.

4 Feb, firefighters were called to a possible grass fire in the area of JB Riley Road, crews were canceled before going in service when the fire was determined to be in Oklahoma.

4 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire under the north bound lane of the Red River Bridge, the fire sparked by workers cutting metal on the bridge was quickly extinguished.

4 Feb, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Ashton Road near Gilbert Creek, on arrival a small fire was located along the roadside and quickly extinguished.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  22 Jan 2008 – 28 Jan 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 28 Jan 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

23 Jan, firefighters were called to Evergreen Care Center for a fire alarm activation, the building fire sprinkler system activated due to frozen pipes, the system was shutdown and turned over to the facility operators for repair to bring the system back up.

24 Jan, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, firefighters held a review of the incident at Ameron the previous week, additionally Lt Scott White and Firefighter Jared Judd discussed wildland firefighting tactics.

26 Jan,  firefighters were called to a vehicle accident on I-44 at Delphi, the department was canceled enroute as other responders arrived determining no further assistances needed.

27 Jan, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Carriage Lane in the Cashion Community, on scene firefighters encountered heavy fire advancing north quickly behind many homes.  Crews from Burkburnett, Friberg-Cooper, Cameron Gardens and Charlie Thornberry worked for nearly 3 hours to completely extinguish the blaze.  In all, approximately 200 acres burned, a barn was destroyed, oil field equipment damaged and some livestock severely burned.  The fire most probably started from stray embers from a barbeque grill in dry vegetation behind a home on Carriage Lane.

28 Jan, firefighters were called to an alarm activation at Evergreen Care Center, staff advised of an accidental alarm, pull by on of the residents.  Fire department response was canceled enroute.

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Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
100 Peyton Drive
Burkburnett, Texas 76354
BVFD Weekly Activities
  15 Jan 2008 – 21 Jan 2008
For Immediate Release
Monday 21 Jan 2008
Contact:     Chief Rodney A Ryalls
Burkburnett Volunteer Fire Department
(940) 733-6842    chief@burkfire.org
                  www.burkfire.org

17 Jan, a regular training session was held at Station 3, hose handling was the topic of the training lead by Captain Rob Snyder.

17 Jan, firefighters were called to a gas odor in the area of Ave B and 6th Street, the area was narrowed down to the alley way with a gas meter most probably causing the odor.  The gas company was notified of the situation.

18 Jan, firefighters were called to a possible grass fire on Bacon Switch Road west of I-44, a small fire in a heavy equipment parking area was discovered and extinguished.

20 Jan, firefighters were called to a grass fire on Freeman Street, on arrival firefighters encountered a 1 acre fire quickly moving across an open field.  The fire was brought under control with 15 minutes of arriving on scene and extinguished within the hour.

21 Jan, firefighters were called to a structure fire at the Ameron Plant on Ameron Road.  On arrival heavy smoke was visibly at the rear of the plant, fire was located in the large pipe manufacturing area.  The plant sprinkler system activated keeping the fire in check until firefighters were able to access the origin of the fire and extinguish.   Crews were on size for about hour and a half. 

21 Jan, firefighters were called to the 1000 block of Jan Lee for smoke detectors activated in the home, on arrival the occupant advised they had a fire in the fireplace and the damper was possibly stuck causing smoke to enter the home.  The attic space was checked and smoke had dissipated, situation was turned back to the home owner.

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10 Jan, the department conducted a regular training session at Station 3, the topic for the
session was wildland tactics and a review of a recent wildland fire west of town.           

12 Jan,  the department joined with the Yellow Rose Sertoma’s to conduct a pancake feed for the Boys and Girls Club, in all over $3,300 was raised for the cause.  Thanks to everyone for coming out and joining us for breakfast, over 500 of you did.  Special thanks to the BEPO Elks Lodge of Wichita Falls for their support and all those who sponsored the event with product donations and door prizes.

13 Jan, the department was called to a grass fire on FM 240 at Morgan Road, on arrival the fire was in a pit and being conducted as a controlled burn.  The property owner was advised of the burn ban and the fire was extinguished. 

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