West Mountain VFD

09/04/2026

Upshur County has extended the Burn Ban until Sept 15th. Please refrain from outdoor burning. This includes burn barrels, burn pits, brush piles. Weather conditions continue to be favorable for rapid fire growth and spread. Thank you, Be safe

08/15/2026

🔥 PLEASE USE EXTREME CAUTION — FIRE DANGER REMAINS HIGH 🔥

Dry conditions continue across Upshur County, and today West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department responded to a 6-acre fire in the 5100 block of FM 2685. Thankfully, that fire has been reported at 100% containment.

This is another reminder of just how quickly a fire can start and spread under our current conditions. The Texas A&M Forest Service fire-danger outlook shows elevated fire danger across our area, and with dry vegetation and continued hot weather, it doesn’t take much for a small spark to become a serious incident.

🚫 Upshur County remains under a COUNTY-WIDE BURN BAN.

Please help us protect our neighbors, homes, property, and first responders:

• Do not burn while the burn ban is in effect.
• Avoid parking or driving vehicles in tall, dry grass.
• Properly dispose of ci******es and other smoking materials.
• Secure trailer chains so they cannot drag and create sparks.
• If you see smoke or a fire, call 911 immediately.

Our volunteer firefighters are ready to respond when called, but preventing the next fire starts with all of us.

Please stay alert, use caution, and help us keep West Mountain and Upshur County safe.

🔥 ONE SPARK IS ALL IT TAKES. 🔥

West Mountain Volunteer Fire Department

08/06/2026

🚫 Burn Ban Now in Effect for Upshur County 🚫

Please be advised that Upshur County is now under a burn ban effective today.

This burn ban also applies to the cities of:
🔥 Gilmer
🔥 Big Sandy
🔥 Ore City

Please refrain from any outdoor burning until the burn ban is lifted. These restrictions are in place to help reduce the risk of wildfires and protect our communities, first responders, and property.

Please help spread the word by sharing this post, and stay safe!

07/22/2026

EXTREME HEAT WARNING IN EFFECT UNTIL 8:00 PM CDT TODAY

Please take the heat seriously today. An Extreme Heat Warning remains in effect across portions of East Texas, Northeast Texas, and Northwest Louisiana through 8:00 PM CDT.

Today's Forecast:
• High temperatures in the upper 90s to lower 100s
• Heat Index Values: Up to 114°F, with many locations between 109–115°F

Dangerously hot conditions can become life-threatening. Heat-related illnesses increase significantly during periods of extreme heat and high humidity.

Protect yourself and those around you:
Drink plenty of water and stay hydrated.
Stay in an air-conditioned building if possible. Fans alone may not be enough during extreme heat.
Limit strenuous outdoor activities, especially during the afternoon.
Wear lightweight, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing.
Check on elderly relatives, neighbors, and anyone without adequate cooling.

NEVER leave children or pets in a parked vehicle.
A vehicle's temperature can rise more than 20 degrees in just 10 minutes, and interiors can reach deadly temperatures within minutes—even with the windows cracked.

Heat illness can happen to anyone, even outside of major heat waves. Stay weather aware, avoid overexertion, and know the signs of heat exhaustion and heat stroke.

Stay cool. Stay hydrated. Stay informed. Please share this information to help keep our community safe today.

07/04/2026

As we celebrate the 250th anniversary of our nation’s independence, let’s take a moment to reflect on the courage, sacrifice, and freedom that make America so special. Whether you’re spending the weekend with family, grilling with friends, or enjoying fireworks, we encourage everyone to celebrate safely and responsibly.

Fireworks Safety Reminders:

• Keep a safe distance from fireworks.
• Always supervise children around fireworks.
• Never relight a firework that doesn’t go off.
• Never use fireworks while under the influence of alcohol.
• Soak used fireworks in water for at least 24 hours before placing them in a plastic bag and disposing of them in the trash.
• Keep trash cans containing used fireworks away from your home, garage, or other structures.

Every year, preventable fires and injuries occur during the holiday. A few extra moments of caution can help ensure everyone has a safe and memorable celebration.

From all of us at West Mountain Fire Department, thank you for doing your part to protect our community.

Have a safe, fun, and Happy Fourth of July weekend as we celebrate 250 years of American independence!

06/28/2026

Our thoughts and prayers go out to the wildland firefighters who lost their lives this past Saturday.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service is devastated to share that three wildland firefighters lost their lives on Saturday, June 27, as part of an interagency response to the Knowles and Gore fires along the Colorado-Utah border. Additionally, two crew members were injured in the line of duty and have been transported to a hospital.

Our immediate focus is on supporting their families, friends, and fellow crewmates during this incredibly difficult time.

The U.S. Wildland Fire Service stands united with the USDA Forest Service in grief and in our unwavering support for the loved ones left behind. Their bravery, dedication, and sacrifice will never be forgotten.

Additional details will be shared as they are able to be released.

06/28/2026

Our heartfelt thoughts and sincere prayers are with the Mabank Fire Department during this time.

06/14/2026

Congratulations to Firefighter Josh Bardwell!

We are incredibly proud to announce that Firefighter and Training Coordinator Josh Bardwell has been named the State Firefighters’ and Fire Marshals’ Association of Texas (SFFMA) Firefighter of the Year for 2026!

This prestigious recognition reflects Josh’s dedication, hard work, selfless service, and unwavering commitment to protecting and serving our community. He consistently goes above and beyond in answering the call, supporting his fellow firefighters, and making a positive impact on those around him.

Please join us in congratulating Josh on this well deserved honor. We are grateful to have him as part of our department and look forward to seeing him continue to represent our community with excellence.

Congratulations, Josh! We are proud of you and thankful for your service!

06/11/2026

This morning, we were dispatched to a structure fire as part of a mutual aid response alongside Gladewater Fire Department, CWC, Gilmer, and Smith County ESD 2.

This incident highlights the importance of cooperation, communication, and teamwork among neighboring departments. We are grateful for the professionalism, dedication, and hard work demonstrated by all personnel on scene. Thank you to everyone involved for working together to protect lives and property.

Great job by all agencies involved. We are proud to stand alongside our mutual aid partners in service to our communities.

05/16/2026

Many people only see the work our volunteers do when the pager goes off, but what often goes unseen is the dedication they also pour into their careers, families, and communities outside the department.

Today, we want to recognize Firefighter Jennifer Bardwell for an incredible accomplishment in her full-time profession.

This week, Jennifer was recognized by her peers for the compassion, professionalism, exemplary effort, and dedication she demonstrates daily as a Nurse Practitioner. Through the many personal hardships she has faced over the years, she has continued to serve her patients with unwavering commitment and care.

Whether serving her community in the fire service, caring for patients as a DNP, or simply being a proud dog-mom, Jennifer exemplifies what servant leadership looks like.

We are proud to have her as part of our department and thankful for the heart she brings to everything she does. Congratulations, Jennifer — this recognition is well deserved!