07/06/2026
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 5, 2026
Northwest Fire Protection District Responds to July 4 Storms
On Saturday, July 4, 2026, severe thunderstorms swept through the Lake area, bringing damaging winds reported at up to 80 mph in some locations. The communities of Climax Springs, Edwards, and Roach experienced widespread storm damage, including numerous downed trees, power lines, utility poles, and damaged electrical infrastructure. The Northwest Fire Protection District responded to 29 emergency calls across our 186-square-mile response area. Despite multiple incidents occurring simultaneously, our firefighters responded quickly and professionally to every call for service, ensuring the safety of our residents and visitors.
Among the most significant incidents were responses to two separate areas where 6–8 utility poles were snapped and on the ground, along with several transformers that had been torn from the poles and were lying on the ground. These incidents created significant electrical hazards that required close coordination between firefighters and utility crews to ensure the safety of the public. As the storm response was winding down, Northwest firefighters were dispatched to a residence where a portable generator was being used to provide power to the home without adequate ventilation. The generator produced dangerous levels of carbon monoxide (CO), resulting in a mass exposure incident. Firefighters immediately evacuated the residence, assessed the occupants, and worked alongside EMS partners to provide emergency medical care. Twelve patients were evaluated and transported to area hospitals for further treatment. This incident serves as an important reminder that generators should never be operated inside a home, garage, basement, crawlspace, or near windows and doors, as carbon monoxide is a colorless, odorless gas that can quickly become deadly.
In addition to handling emergencies within our own district, the Northwest Fire Protection District deployed a brush truck with two firefighters to assist the Sunrise Beach area, which was also heavily impacted by the storm. We are proud to support our neighboring agencies whenever assistance is needed. We would also like to extend our sincere appreciation to Southwest Electric for their prompt, professional, and coordinated response in restoring power and addressing hazardous electrical conditions throughout the storm. Their dedication and teamwork were instrumental in helping make the affected areas safe. Most importantly, we want to recognize our dedicated volunteer firefighters. Many left family gatherings and Independence Day celebrations without hesitation to answer the call for their community. Their willingness to serve, professionalism under pressure, and commitment to protecting others exemplify the very best of the fire service. We are incredibly proud of each member who answered the call during this challenging day.
The Northwest Fire Protection District remains committed to serving our community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, and appreciates the continued support of the citizens we are honored to protect.
