Fire departments from across Nebraska are sending personnel and equipment to assist with the ongoing Cottonwood and Morrill wildfires burning in western Nebraska.
Following a state of emergency declaration, the City of Omaha is deploying specialized personnel and equipment to help with wildfire containment efforts in Keith County. According to city officials, Omaha Fire Department crews were scheduled to depart at 5 a.m. Sunday.
Officials say the fires in Keith County have burned more than 500,000 acres and remain at 0% containment, prompting the governor’s request for additional mutual aid from departments across the state.
The Omaha Fire Department is sending eight personnel along with several vehicles, including an engine for structural protection and active suppression, a water tender to provide water supply in remote areas, and a brush truck designed for off-road maneuverability in fast-moving grass fires. Omaha crews are expected to remain in Keith County for up to seven days, or as long as their assistance is needed.
“This is rather unprecedented,” Omaha Fire Chief Kathy Bossman said, noting the department has not sent fire crews outside the local area in several decades.
“The Omaha Fire Department is proud to deploy personnel and resources to Keith County, NE to assist with the Cottonwood and Morrill wildfires,” Bossman said. “I am extremely proud of the professionalism our firefighters demonstrate as they support fellow responders and communities across Nebraska during these challenging conditions.”
The City of Lincoln is also providing support. Lincoln Fire & Rescue mobilized an 11-member task force and resources to assist wildfire response efforts in western Nebraska.
City officials say Lincoln Mayor Leirion Gaylor Baird initiated the response, directing Fire Chief Brian Engler and the team to prepare for deployment after Governor Jim Pillen requested additional assistance.
The Lincoln team will support crews already working on the front lines to protect communities and limit the spread of the fires.
Officials praised the firefighters’ willingness to respond wherever they are needed, thanking them for their dedication as they head west to assist with the ongoing wildfire fight.
Columbus is also sending a 6 man crew and 1 grass fire apparatus. Committing to a 48 hour deployment in western Nebraska.