Following the floods in central Texas, Houston-area first responders are providing assistance. The Houston Fire Department is sending a fire engine and four members of its Tactical Deployment Unit to help with local response efforts, according to CW39. Mayor John Whitmire said, "As mayor of a city that knows the toll of major storms, I understand the fear and uncertainty so many are feeling."
Houston Fire Department is not the only group responding to the flood recovery. Teams from Cypress Creek, Galveston County, New Waverly, and Montgomery County are also heading to assist. ABC13 reports that teams were deployed within hours of getting the call. Houston Fire Department District Chief Joshua Vogel said, "We all have a kit we maintain with about five days of clothes," showing their preparedness for the situation.
Flooding in Kerr County, caused by 10 inches of overnight rain, resulted in widespread damage and several deaths. Search and rescue teams used boats to assist people in riverfront areas. Houston Fire Department Chief Thomas Muñoz said, "The loss of life and damage to the communities in Central Texas is tragic," as stated by CW39. Responders also prepared mentally for the situation. Vogel told ABC13, "It could become overwhelming if you're not in the right mindset. We've all done this a couple of times, and I think everyone's good at it, honestly. You just take it one bite at a time, be flexible, (and) be understanding."
