DeQuincy, Louisiana - Ward Six Fire Protection District No. One reported a busy start to 2026, responding to a wide range of emergency incidents throughout January in the DeQuincy and North Sulphur areas of Calcasieu Parish.

According to the district’s January 2026 incident report, firefighters handled multiple types of emergencies, from wildland and building fires to vehicle crashes and service calls. District officials also used the report to stress winter fire safety and to invite new volunteers to join the department.

Wide Range Of January Incidents

Ward 6 firefighters responded to the following incidents in January:

• Forest, woods, or wildland fires: 9
• Building fires: 8
• Vehicle crashes with no injuries: 6
• False alarms: 5
• Service calls: 4
• Potential incidents: 3
• Vicinity alarms (incidents in other locations): 3
• Vehicle crashes with injuries: 2
• Cover assignments and standby: 2
• Dispatched and canceled en route: 2
• Vehicle crash with extrication: 1
• Authorized controlled burn: 1
• Vehicle fire: 1
• EMS assist for ambulance service: 1
• Power line down: 1
• No incident found on arrival: 1

The mix of calls shows that Ward 6 firefighters are not only responding to active fires, but also handling medical assists, power hazards, and mutual aid responses to other areas. A “vicinity alarm” typically refers to an alert or notification for an incident near, but not directly within, the primary response area. Cover assignments and standby duties ensure that fire coverage continues when nearby departments are busy with major incidents.

The report notes the continued dedication of Ward 6 members, who give their time to protect residents and property in the district. Ward 6 is a combination or volunteer-driven district, and its operations rely heavily on community members willing to train and respond.

Winter Fire Safety Remains A Priority

Along with the incident totals, Ward 6 Fire Protection District used its January report to remind residents that fire safety during the winter months is critical.

When temperatures drop, many households rely on supplemental heating sources such as space heaters and heat lamps. These devices can raise the risk of fire if not used correctly.

The district highlighted several key safety guidelines:

• Space heaters:
• Keep at least 3 feet of clearance from any combustible material, such as curtains, furniture, bedding, or paper.
• Plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. They should not be plugged into power strips or extension cords, which are more likely to overheat.
• Heat lamps for pets and animals:
• Secure heat lamps away from combustible materials like bedding, straw, wood, or plastic.
• Position lamps where pets or livestock cannot knock them over. A tipped lamp can quickly ignite nearby surfaces.
• Extension cords and electrical load:
• Do not overload extension cords or power strips. Overloading happens when too many high-wattage devices are plugged into one circuit, which can cause overheating and potentially a fire.

These recommendations align with common guidance from national fire safety organizations.

Wildland Fires And Outdoor Burning

The district recorded nine forest, woods, or wildland fires in January, along with one authorized controlled burn. Even in cooler weather, dry vegetation, wind, and unattended burning can combine to create hazardous fire conditions.

While one controlled burn was listed as “authorized,” firefighters still emphasize that any burning should follow local rules and only be conducted under safe conditions. Residents are urged to monitor weather, keep water or extinguishing tools nearby, and never leave a fire unattended.

Vehicle Crashes And Rescue Response

Ward 6 responded to multiple vehicle-related incidents in January, including:

• Six vehicle crashes with no injuries
• Two vehicle crashes with injuries
• One vehicle crash requiring extrication
• One vehicle fire

Extrication refers to using specialized tools and techniques to free someone trapped in a vehicle, often after a serious crash. These calls require extra training and equipment, and they highlight the range of emergencies that local firefighters are prepared to handle.

The district also reported one power line down, which can create both fire and electrocution hazards, and one EMS assist, where firefighters supported ambulance crews at a medical emergency.

Call For Volunteers In DeQuincy And North Sulphur

Ward 6 Fire Protection District is actively seeking additional volunteers to help respond to emergencies in the DeQuincy and North Sulphur areas of Calcasieu Parish.

Residents who live in these areas and are interested in volunteering can contact the district in two ways:

• Send a private message through the Ward 6 Fire Facebook page
• Visit the district’s website at www.ward6fire.com and complete an applicant interest card

Volunteers typically receive training in fire suppression, basic rescue, and emergency response, helping strengthen local preparedness. While the January incident report shows a heavy workload, it also underscores how critical a strong volunteer base is for rural and semi-rural fire districts.