Gregg County Evacuations Lifted

LONGVIEW — Fireighters in Gregg County said all fires have now been contained and evacuation orders have been lifted. This includes the fires in the Gladewater area: Cole Bottom and the Moore Fire. City and County Officials are continuing to monitor the situation and are encouraging citizens to be aware of fire safety precautions. Below is an update of the situation in the Gregg County area.

Smoke and Air Quality:

The East Texas area continues to be blanketed by smoke from area fires. The smoke tends to settle in the morning and evening. The majority of the smoke seen over the Gregg County area is seen from fires occurring in counties to the north. With all the smoke and other particles in the air, people with a history of respiratory symptoms are cautioned to stay indoors. In addition, officials encourage residents to refrain from calling 9-1-1 about general smoke in the air unless the resident sees a column of smoke or sees the fire that is the source of the smoke.

Donations and volunteers:

Generous citizens have provided many donations including more than 1,000 cases of water, hundreds of bottles of sports drinks, and many non-perishable food items. The donations have been distributed to area emergency responders. No items are being requested at this time; however, to inquire about making donations to support public safety personnel, you’re asked to call 903-237-1379. To inquire about donations for fire victims, call the local Red Cross at 903-753-2091. No volunteers are needed at this time except for qualified firefighters.

Reminder of Fire Safety Tips:

With all the smoke and other particles in the air, people with a history of respiratory symptoms are cautioned to stay indoors.

If there are extreme smoke conditions, please do not proceed down the streets.

Have an exit strategy from your home, business, and neighborhood to multiple points of exit.

Do not wait for someone to tell you to evacuate. Be watchful and evacuate if the fire danger is nearby.

For your own safety, if you don’t live near the fires, please stay away from the area around the fires.

Avoid activities that can create a spark. Examples include burning of any kind, outdoor cooking or grilling, improper disposal of cigarettes, industrial activities such as welding or other construction, or use of any older equipment without spark arrestors.

Visit http://www.FireWise.org for additional fire safety tips.