Calcasieu Parish. Louisiana – The Houston River Fire Department in Calcasieu Parish reported a total of 30 incidents for the month of November, reflecting a steady level of emergency activity across its service area. The department’s calls ranged from structure fires to mutual aid responses, underscoring the variety of situations local firefighters routinely face.
According to the department’s monthly run totals, firefighters responded to:
- Structure fires: 4
- Grass/woods fires: 3
- Auto crashes: 3
- Mutual aid responses: 6
- Fire alarms: 2
- Auto aid responses: 6
- Gas leaks: 1
- Investigations: 5
These categories together brought the total number of calls for November to 30.
Mix Of Fire, Rescue, And Support Calls
The four structure fires represented some of the most serious incidents on the November call list, given the potential for significant property damage and risk to life. Grass and woods fires, which can spread quickly in dry or windy conditions, accounted for three additional calls.
Auto crashes made up another three responses. In these situations, firefighters may be called on for a range of tasks, including providing medical assistance, stabilizing vehicles, or addressing hazards such as fuel leaks.
The department also responded to two fire alarms. These calls can involve anything from false alarms to early detection of smoke or fire, and they still require a full, professional response to verify conditions and ensure public safety.
One gas leak was reported and handled in November. Gas leaks are treated as high-risk incidents because of the potential for explosion or fire, and they typically involve careful monitoring, evacuation decisions, and coordination with utility companies.
Five investigations rounded out the month’s call types. Investigations can include checking reports of smoke, unusual odors, or other possible fire hazards that do not immediately present as active fires.
Mutual Aid And Auto Aid Across Calcasieu Parish
Mutual aid and auto aid played a significant role in November’s activity. The Houston River Fire Department answered:
- 6 mutual aid responses
- 6 auto aid responses
Mutual aid refers to calls where one department assists another agency outside its primary area when requested, often during larger or multiple simultaneous incidents. Auto aid is similar, but is typically part of a prearranged agreement in which neighboring departments automatically respond to certain types of calls based on location, staffing, or resource needs.
The department reported that its mutual aid responses in November included 2 structure fires and 4 grass/woods fires, supporting neighboring departments when additional manpower or equipment was needed. These cooperative responses help ensure that no single department is overwhelmed when serious or multiple incidents occur in close succession.
Emphasis On Service And Professionalism
In its monthly summary, the Houston River Fire Department acknowledged the extensive time and effort contributed by its members. Leadership expressed appreciation for the firefighters’ commitment and the “countless hours” they devote to protecting residents in Calcasieu Parish and assisting neighboring communities.
The breakdown of incidents provides a clear snapshot of how often local firefighters are called into action and in what capacities. From structure fires and crashes to investigations and aid to other departments, Houston River’s November activity reflects the broad mission of a modern fire service: fire suppression, emergency response, hazard mitigation, and regional cooperation.