East End Volunteer Fire Department

06/10/2026

☀️ HOT WEATHER SAFETY INFORMATION ☀️

As temperatures rise, it’s important to take precautions to protect yourself, your family, and your pets from heat-related illnesses.

Stay Hydrated 💧

* Drink plenty of water throughout the day.
* Avoid excessive amounts of alcohol, caffeine, and sugary drinks.
* Don’t wait until you’re thirsty to drink water.

Limit Outdoor Activities 🌡️

* Avoid strenuous activities during the hottest part of the day, typically between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM.
* Take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.
* Wear lightweight, light-colored, loose-fitting clothing.

Know the Signs of Heat Illness 🚑

Heat Exhaustion

Symptoms may include:

* Heavy sweating
* Weakness or fatigue
* Dizziness
* Headache
* Nausea
* Cool, pale, clammy skin

Move to a cool place, drink water, and seek medical attention if symptoms worsen.

Heat Stroke (Medical Emergency)

Symptoms may include:

* High body temperature
* Hot, red skin
* Confusion or altered mental state
* Loss of consciousness
* Seizures

Call 911 immediately. Heat stroke can be life-threatening.

Check on Vulnerable Individuals ❤️

Pay special attention to:

* Elderly family members and neighbors
* Young children
* Individuals with chronic medical conditions
* Those without access to air conditioning

Protect Children and Pets 🚗

Never leave children, elderly individuals, or pets in a parked vehicle—even for a few minutes.

Vehicle temperatures can rise to deadly levels very quickly.

Pet Safety 🐾

* Ensure pets have access to fresh water and shade.
* Walk pets during cooler morning or evening hours.
* Remember: If the pavement is too hot for your hand, it’s too hot for their paws.

Outdoor Worker Safety 👷

* Take frequent hydration breaks.
* Work in shaded areas whenever possible.
* Watch coworkers for signs of heat-related illness.

Remember

Look Before You Lock.
Hydrate Before You Dehydrate.
When in Doubt, Get Out of the Heat.

If you experience symptoms of heat-related illness or witness someone in distress, seek medical attention immediately or call 911.

Stay safe and stay cool!

06/09/2026

Last night, firefighters from several area departments gathered for a hands-on demonstration of a new firefighting tool that could change the way crews attack fires both inside structures and in the wildland environment.

The focus of the evening was the High Efficiency Nozzle, commonly known as the HEN. While most firefighters are familiar with traditional combination nozzles and smooth bore nozzles, the HEN brings something entirely different to the fireground.

With a simple turn of the nozzle, firefighters can quickly transition from a traditional smooth bore stream to an innovative flat blade stream. This unique design provides versatility without the need to change equipment, allowing crews to adapt to changing fire conditions in seconds.

During the demonstration, firefighters had the opportunity to test both the structural and forestry versions of the nozzle. Crews observed firsthand how the flat blade stream creates a wide, uniform water pattern that offers impressive wall-to-wall coverage. The design allows water to be distributed more efficiently across a fire area, increasing cooling capabilities while maximizing water usage.

Throughout the evening, firefighters evaluated stream patterns, reach, coverage, and overall performance. The demonstration provided valuable insight into how the High Efficiency Nozzle could be utilized in both structural firefighting and wildland operations.

Training and evaluating new equipment is an important part of ensuring firefighters have the tools and knowledge needed to protect lives and property. Events like this allow departments to stay current with advancements in the fire service while giving personnel the opportunity to see new technology in action before it reaches the fireground.

A special thank you goes out to everyone who participated in the demonstration and helped make the training a success.

06/08/2026

Meet a Member Monday.

This week, we're proud to spotlight Leonard Johnston Jr., a dedicated member whose service, leadership, and commitment have made a lasting impact on our department.

Leonard joined the department in 2004 and has spent more than two decades serving in a variety of roles. Throughout the years, he has worn many hats, including firefighter, captain, chaplain, training chief and president, the position he currently holds. No matter the title, Leonard has always approached each role with the same passion and dedication to the department and its members.

From the day he joined, Leonard has been one of the department's most active members. Whether responding to calls, helping with department projects, or ensuring equipment is ready for service, he is always willing to step up. If a truck needs repairs, equipment needs attention, or something around the station needs fixing, Leonard is often the first person there, ready to lend a hand.

In addition to his service in the fire department, Leonard proudly served his country in the US Army, demonstrating the same spirit of service and commitment that continues to define his work today. He also dedicated many years of his career to Texas Parks and Wildlife, where he built a reputation for hard work, professionalism, and public service before retiring. His career reflects a lifelong commitment to serving both his community and the people of Texas.

One of Leonard's greatest strengths is his ability to connect with people. He has a natural gift for mentoring and teaching fellow firefighters. Whether in a formal training session or on the fireground during an emergency, Leonard is always looking for opportunities to share knowledge and help others grow. He has a unique way of turning everyday situations into valuable learning experiences, helping make our department stronger and better prepared for the challenges we face.

Leonard's leadership, work ethic, and dedication to service have left a lasting mark on our department. His willingness to serve wherever needed, his commitment to training and mentorship, and his passion for helping others embody the values that make our department successful.

Thank you, Leonard, for your years of service, leadership, and unwavering commitment to our department, your fellow firefighters, and our community. We are honored to have you as part of our fire service family.

06/07/2026

What Happens After the Fire?

When the last flame is extinguished, the smoke clears, and the fire trucks leave the scene, many people assume the job is over.

For a Volunteer Fire Department, it's only halfway done.

The public sees the emergency. They see the flashing lights, the blocked roads, the firefighters battling flames, and the long hours spent protecting lives and property. What most people don't see is what happens after everyone else goes home.

Once firefighters return to the station, the real work of recovery begins.

Hundreds of feet of hose that were dragged through mud, water, and debris must be washed, dried, inspected, rolled, and placed back on the apparatus. Any damaged hose must be identified and replaced.

Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) packs that allowed firefighters to work in smoke-filled environments must be cleaned, inspected, and refilled. Every mask, air bottle, and piece of equipment is checked to ensure it is ready for the next emergency.

The trucks themselves need attention. Fuel tanks are topped off. Equipment used on the call is cleaned, restocked, and returned to its proper place. Chainsaws, fans, hand tools, and pumps are all inspected for damage and prepared for service.

Then comes the paperwork. Incident reports must be completed, equipment usage documented, maintenance records updated, and information filed properly.

It is the behind-the-scenes work that few people ever witness.

The public may see a roadway closed for a few hours, but they don't see volunteers standing in the station at 4:00 in the morning washing and re-racking hose. They don't see firefighters who have been on a scene for nine hours spending another two or three hours making sure every truck is clean, inspected, and ready to respond again.

Many of these volunteers will go home exhausted, covered in soot, sunburned, and physically drained—only to wake up a few hours later and head to their regular jobs. They do it because they know the next emergency could come at any moment, and someone in their community may need help.

Following Friday's lumber yard fire, firefighters from departments across the area spent more than nine hours battling the blaze. But when the fire was finally under control, their work was far from over. Every department returned to their stations to clean equipment, inspect apparatus, refill air bottles, replace used supplies, and prepare for the next call.

Because in the fire service, readiness never stops.

The fire may be out, but the commitment continues.

The next time you see a fire truck leaving the scene, remember that the job isn't over when the lights are turned off. Behind every emergency response is a group of dedicated volunteers spending countless hours ensuring they are ready to answer the next call for help.

That is the part of the job most people never see.

06/06/2026

06/05/2026

At 7:30 a.m. on Friday morning, East End Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to assist Jasper Volunteer Fire Department, Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Department, and Beech Grove Volunteer Fire Department with a reported structure fire at the Lincoln Lumber Company located on U.S. Highway 96 South, just south of Jasper.

The fire was initially reported shortly before 7:00 a.m. Upon arrival, East End VFD was assigned to the water supply operation and tanker shuttle. Crews established portable dump tanks to support the continuous flow of water needed for firefighting operations.

Jasper Texas Volunteer Fire Department was the first department to arrive on scene. After assessing the size and scope of the incident, additional mutual aid was requested from surrounding departments. Firefighters from Tri-Community Volunteer Fire Dept, Beech Grove VFD, Jasper TX, Lake Rayburn Fire Department, Angelina River Fire And Rescue, Kirbyville Volunteer Fire Dept,Roganville Volunteer Fire, Buna Texas Volunteer Fire Department as well as Silsbee VFD responded with manpower and equipment to assist in extinguishing the blaze.

Due to the absence of fire hydrants in the immediate area of the lumber mill, a coordinated tanker shuttle operation was established.

The fire was contained to the kiln or dryer house, where lumber is processed after being cut. Firefighters worked for an extended period to bring the fire under control and prevent it from spreading to other portions of the facility.

East End Volunteer Fire Department would like to thank all responding agencies for their teamwork and cooperation during this incident. The successful containment of the fire was made possible through the combined efforts of multiple departments working together.

We responded with Engine 1, Engine 2 and 5 personnel.

The full amount of water used is still be calculated.

06/05/2026

96 South of Jasper. Multiple trucks in and out the area as well as smoke.

06/02/2026

June 1 marks the official start of the Atlantic Hurricane Season, and local emergency officials are encouraging residents to take steps now to ensure they are prepared for potential tropical weather threats.

While hurricanes are often associated with coastal communities, inland areas can experience significant impacts from tropical systems, including damaging winds, tornadoes, flooding, prolonged power outages, and hazardous travel conditions.

Emergency officials recommend that every household have an emergency plan and disaster supply kit ready before a storm threatens the area. Important preparedness measures include:

• Knowing your evacuation routes and emergency shelter options.• Maintaining at least three days' worth of food, water, medications, and essential supplies.• Keeping mobile devices charged and having backup power sources available.• Securing important documents in waterproof containers.• Ensuring generators are operated safely and never used indoors.• Reviewing insurance policies and documenting personal property.

Residents are also encouraged to sign up for local emergency alerts and monitor trusted weather sources throughout the hurricane season, which runs from June 1 through November 30.

"Preparedness is everyone's responsibility," officials said. "The time to make a plan is before a storm enters the Gulf of Mexico. Taking simple steps today can help protect your family and property when severe weather threatens."

Motorists are reminded to never drive through flooded roadways. Just a small amount of moving water can sweep away a vehicle, and floodwaters often conceal damaged roads and other hazards.

Officials urge residents to check on elderly neighbors, individuals with disabilities, and those who may need assistance during an emergency.

For the latest weather information, preparedness resources, and emergency updates, follow local emergency management agencies and trusted weather sources throughout the hurricane season.

Hurricane Safety Reminder:

Prepare Early. Stay Informed. Have a Plan.

05/25/2026

They call it the unofficial start of summer.

Coolers are packed. Grills are lit. Flags flap in the breeze like background noise.

But somewhere between the sunscreen and the sound of lawn chairs unfolding, I hope we remember.

Because this weekend wasn’t built on burger buns and beach days.

It was built on sacrifice.

The kind that leaves an empty chair at the table.
The kind that comes after a folded flag is handed over and “thank you” never feels like enough.

Memorial Day is red, white, and blue—but it’s also grief dressed in uniforms. Empty boots beside full hearts. Letters that made it home when someone else didn’t.

It’s for the ones who never got a welcome back.

For the families who still set an extra place at the table.

For the children who learned their parent’s story through photographs, medals, and memories shared by others.

So light the grill. Laugh. Rest. Enjoy the people around you.

But raise your heart in gratitude and reverence.

Remember that weekends like this were paid for with someone else’s shortened tomorrow so we could fully live our todays.

Because freedom isn’t just fireworks and parades.

It’s legacy.

A legacy we’re fortunate to live inside because someone else stood in harm’s way for it.

This Memorial Day, enjoy the weekend—but don’t forget why we have it.

Remember the sacrifice. Honor the fallen. Carry their memory forward.

05/23/2026

This morning was a busy one for area departments as multiple calls were received across the county for weather-related incidents involving downed trees and power lines.

At approximately 9:37 AM, East End Volunteer Fire Department was dispatched to the area of County Road 293 (Steer Stadium Road) for a reported downed power line.

Upon arrival, crews located the hazard, secured the scene, and remained in service until JNECO arrived and safely mitigated the situation.

We would also like to recognize and thank a local homeowner who graciously provided food and refreshments to firefighters while crews remained on scene awaiting utility response. Your support and kindness are greatly appreciated.

⚠️ Public Safety Reminder:Downed power lines should always be considered energized and dangerous. Do not approach, drive over, or attempt to move a downed line. Keep a safe distance and notify emergency services or the utility provider. Only trained utility personnel can determine when a line is safe.

Thank you to all responding agencies and utility crews for their continued service to our community.