Chatom Volunteer Fire Department

06/18/2026

06/18/2026

Stay weather alert today. Chatom received 3 + inches yesterday and on track to receive a lot more. If you don’t have to be on the roads today please don’t. And remember turn around don’t drown. Even if it looks shallow the road maybe washed out and you can’t see it stay safe !

6/18/26 3am Urgent Update. A multi-hazard weather event is unfolding for our area today through Friday associated with tropical moisture overspreading the area from the remnants of Tropical Storm Arthur.
🌧️ A portion of the area is now outlooked under a rare High Risk of excessive rain which could result in considerable to catastrophic flash flooding today through Friday. This is a particularly dangerous life threatening setup that is evolving. Torrential rain will bring an additional 6-12" (locally 15"+), with the highest flash flood threat being today. Significant river flooding will also be a concern. High risk creek beds will likely see rapid water rises and potential problems if near roads.
🌪️ There is also a slight risk of severe storms today capable of isolated tornadoes and damaging winds!
🌊 Coastal hazards are also increasing, with life-threatening rip currents through Saturday and 5-7 ft surf late tonight-Friday morning. Minor coastal flooding is also possible around this afternoon's high tide, especially near Mobile Bay.
‼️ Stay weather aware and be ready to take urgent action if Flash flood warnings are issued, particularly wireless emergency alert flash flood warnings or considerable and/or catastrophic flooding. Remember, never cross flooded roads, **Turn Around, Don't Drown!**

05/09/2026

CFD was dispatched yesterday 5/7 @ 12:41 to a report of heavy smoke coming from under a residence. Upon arrival CFD observed a fully involved room inside the home, deployed lines and extinguished the fire while keeping it contained to that interior room. Did have smoke damage in some other parts of the structure.
Great job by CFD personnel on initial knockdown and extinguishment. And a huge thank you Laton Hill, Tibbie, Wagarville, & Newman’s Ambulance Service for their assistance.

05/06/2026

Be Weather Conscious this Wednesday evening and throughout the weekend. There is potential for severe storms and flooding. Watch for possible roadway flooding or downed trees and power lines . Be safe and please give first responders time to respond in this weather.

04/21/2026

Please refrain from burning ANYTHING until conditions improve.
That pile of limbs , trash , or little bit of pine straw you been wanting to burn isn’t worth the potential loss of yours or someone else’s home , vehicle, or life.
Or with the extreme conditions we are under, on top of how things normally develop and change quickly in a wildfire, the possible loss of fire apparatus or a firefighter being injured or worse.

🔥 Wildfire activity can ramp up fast under the right conditions.

From April 13–19, AFC crews responded to:
➡️ 80 wildfires
➡️ 3,782 acres

With drought conditions intensifying across the state and little meaningful rainfall in the forecast, it only takes a single spark to start a wildfire — and dry conditions allow it to spread quickly.

Right now, prevention is critical:
✔️ Avoid parking or driving on dry grass
✔️ Use outdoor equipment with care
✔️ Never leave a fire unattended
✔️ Follow all burn restrictions and safety guidance

These numbers highlight the current conditions across Alabama and the importance of staying vigilant. Wildfire risk remains high, and we all have a role in reducing it.

04/14/2026

Dispatched @ 2:31 pm. To assist Tibbie with the woods fire from yesterday.
Arrived on scene in Tibbie and immediately got dispatched @ 3:08 pm. to assist Laton Hill with a structure fire. Arrived on scene to find it was a large shed next to an occupied dwelling. Structure was quickly brought under control thanks to the efforts of multiple departments and the home was saved with minimal damage. The occupant was assisted from the home prior to the arrival of the fire department by multiple people.

04/13/2026

BE ADVISED::

Due to current weather conditions, while we are not under a burn ban, it is STRONGLY ADVISED you not burn at this time. Washington County faced two MAJOR fires yesterday, and with current conditions, a small fire could do the same thing. Please be safe, smart, and leave the lighters at the house.

04/13/2026

Dispatched @ 3:47 pm. To assist Tibbie FD along with numerous other departments with an extremely large woods fire.
Be cautious while traveling in the area in until smoke dissipates.

04/12/2026

Dispatched @ 5:16 pm to assist Laton Hill Fire Department with a woods fire endangering structures. Fire was stopped approximately 10’ from landowners home.