Bell County Emergency Services District No. 1

06/17/2026

Today we’re celebrating 75 years of Sparky the Fire Dog, a mascot with an important mission—helping teach generations of children and families about fire safety.

For decades, Sparky has reminded us that simple safety habits can save lives, from testing smoke alarms and creating home escape plans to preventing fires before they start.

Thank you, Sparky, for 75 years of making fire prevention fun, memorable, and impactful!

Join us in wishing Sparky the Fire Dog a happy 75th birthday and continue sharing the message of fire safety with your family and community.

06/16/2026

06/16/2026

Training Never Stops at Salado Fire Department

Tonight our firefighters spent time sharpening their wildland firefighting skills as we continue preparing for the summer fire season.

Training topics included:
🌾 Understanding wildland fire behavior
🔥 Types of grass and ground cover fires
💨 Wind-driven fire movement and spread
🚒 Direct and indirect fire attack methods
💧 Effective water application and conservation techniques
🛠️ Wildland firefighting tactics and safety

As temperatures rise and vegetation begins to dry out, ongoing training helps ensure our personnel are ready to respond quickly, safely, and effectively when grass fires threaten our community.

A well-trained firefighter is one of the best tools we have for protecting lives, property, and the environment.

Thank you to all of our volunteers and paid personnel who dedicate their time to continuing education and training.

06/15/2026

Carbon monoxide (CO) is often called the "silent killer" because it is colorless, odorless, and can be deadly before you even realize it's present.

As we spend more time indoors with air conditioning running and appliances working harder, now is a great time to make sure your home is protected.

✅ Test your carbon monoxide alarms monthly
✅ Replace batteries at least once a year (or as recommended by the manufacturer)
✅ Check the expiration date on your alarm—most units need replacement every 5–10 years
✅ Install CO alarms outside sleeping areas and on every level of your home
✅ Never ignore a sounding CO alarm

If your carbon monoxide alarm activates:
🚪 Move everyone outside immediately
📞 Call 911 from a safe location
🏠 Do not re-enter the home until emergency personnel say it is safe

A working carbon monoxide alarm could save your life and the lives of those you love.

Take 2 minutes today to test your alarm. It could make all the difference tomorrow.

06/12/2026

A child can drown silently and quickly, often without splashing or calling for help. As families spend more time around pools this summer, constant supervision is critical.

👀 Always assign a dedicated Water Watcher whose only job is watching children in or near the water.

🏊 Stay within arm's reach of young children.

🚪 Keep pool gates closed, latched, and secured when not in use.

🦺 Use properly fitted U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jackets when appropriate.

📱 Put phones and distractions away while supervising.

🎓 Enroll children in age-appropriate swim lessons and learn CPR.

Remember, drowning is one of the leading causes of accidental death for young children, but many of these tragedies are preventable.

One moment of distraction can change a life forever. Stay alert. Stay close. Stay safe.

🚒💙💦

06/10/2026

The recent rain has helped green things up across Central Texas, but don't let it give you a false sense of security. With warmer temperatures, sunshine, and wind, grass and vegetation can dry out surprisingly fast, creating conditions for grass fires to spread quickly.

Here are a few ways you can help prevent grass fires:

✅ Keep grass and weeds mowed around your home and structures.

✅ Remove brush piles, dead vegetation, and other combustible materials from your property.

✅ Avoid parking vehicles on tall grass. Hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation.

✅ Secure trailer safety chains so they don't drag on the roadway and create sparks.

✅ Use caution when welding, grinding, or operating equipment outdoors.

✅ Never toss cigarette butts out of vehicle windows.

✅ Have a water source available when conducting any outdoor work that could create sparks.

✅ Follow all burn bans and local restrictions.

A single spark can quickly become a large grass fire, threatening homes, livestock, and property. Taking a few preventative steps today can help keep our community safe throughout the summer.

🚒 Help us prevent the next grass fire. Stay aware, stay prepared, and stay safe.

06/09/2026

Central Texas temperatures are rising, and dehydration can happen faster than you think. Whether you're working outside, exercising, attending sporting events, or simply enjoying time outdoors, it's important to stay ahead of the heat.

💧 Drink water regularly throughout the day — don't wait until you're thirsty.

🧢 Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and take frequent breaks in the shade or air conditioning.

🌡️ Know the warning signs of heat-related illness:
• Excessive sweating
• Dizziness or lightheadedness
• Headache
• Muscle cramps
• Nausea
• Fatigue

🚨 Call 911 immediately if someone shows signs of heat stroke:
• Confusion or altered mental status
• Loss of consciousness
• Hot, dry skin
• Body temperature above 103°F

👵👶 Check on elderly family members, young children, and neighbors who may be more vulnerable to the heat.

Remember: Water. Rest. Shade. Those three simple steps can help prevent a medical emergency.

Stay cool, stay hydrated, and stay safe this summer.