Pederson commends local volunteer firefighters

OKLAHOMA CITY – The efforts of local volunteer firefighters are being commended by Senator Roland Pederson, as the Burlington legislator recognized their contributions to the areas impacted by the wildfires this week.

“The aid provided by volunteer firefighters around the state has had a significant bearing on the areas destroyed by recent wildfires,” said Pederson.  “Providing support, as well as delivering fuel and hay to the devastated areas are just a few ways our local volunteers have made a difference in the community effort to provide help.”

Gov. Mary Fallin has declared a state of emergency in 22 counties due to this month’s wildfires, after hundreds of thousands of acres burned in Beaver, Harper and Woodward counties in northwestern Oklahoma and the Oklahoma Panhandle. Fire conditions are expected to continue this week, and the governor’s 30-day emergency order encompasses multiple counties in the northern tier of the state. 

 “Fortunately, our area was spared from this particular round of wildfires, but our local communities have been in similar situations in recent years, and I believe I can speak for many when I say we truly sympathize with them for their devastating losses,” said Pederson.  “The loss of life, property and livestock will leave a void that will be felt for years to come, and I appreciate the efforts of local volunteer firefighters and others who have given their time and resources to help other Oklahomans in need.”