08/30/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
August 30, 2026
Tennessee Deploys Firefighting Teams to Support North Texas Wildfire Response Through EMAC
NASHVILLE, Tenn. – The Tennessee Emergency Management Authority (TEMA) is coordinating the deployment of firefighting personnel and equipment from multiple Tennessee jurisdictions to assist Texas officials in battling the Ross Fires in North Texas, a significant wildfire incident intensified by prolonged extreme heat, dry conditions, and high winds. The deployment is being coordinated through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation’s state‑to‑state mutual aid system.
“Our firefighters embody the Volunteer State’s commitment to helping communities in their greatest time of need,” said TEMA Commissioner Patrick C. Sheehan. “Texas is facing dangerous and fast‑moving wildfire conditions, and Tennessee is proud to stand with them by sending skilled personnel and equipment prepared for extreme environments and extended operations.”
Texas requested wildland and structural firefighting resources to help combat the fires, which are threatening residential areas in North Texas. In response, Tennessee is sending a fire engine strike team including six fire engine companies and one logistical support unit, totaling 29 personnel. The personnel and equipment traveling to Texas are from the Brentwood Fire Department, Franklin Fire Department, Columbia Fire Department, Knoxville Fire Department, Madison County Fire Department and Murfreesboro Fire Department. The teams will work defensively to protect homes and structures in the fires' path. The Maury County Office of Emergency Management is providing logistical support for the mission.
TEMA is coordinating Tennessee's deployments through the Emergency Management Assistance Compact (EMAC), the nation's state-to-state mutual aid system. For additional information on EMAC and how states help each other in times of disaster, visit emacweb.org. These missions reflect the Volunteer State's deep commitment to helping others in times of crisis while also strengthening our own readiness to respond wherever needed.
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About the Tennessee Emergency Management Authority: TEMA’s mission is to coordinate preparedness, response and recovery from man-made, natural and technological hazards in a professional and efficient manner in concert with our stakeholders. Follow TEMA on social media and on our website at www.tn.gov/tema.
