Guest commentary: Thank you to our disaster response partners

By Assistant Chief Jesse Wilson & Battalion Chief William Pettus

Houston Fire Department

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, the Houston Fire Department (HFD) would like to express our deepest gratitude to the many disaster response partners who came to our aid.

In the days and weeks following the storm, we received assistance from fire departments, emergency medical services, and other organizations from across the country.

These partners provided much-needed manpower, equipment, and expertise, and their help was essential in our efforts to respond to the hurricane and its aftermath.

We would like to thank the following organizations for their support:

• The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA)
• The Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM)
• The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
• The International Association of Fire Fighters (IAFF)
• The National Urban Search and Rescue Task Force
• The Texas A&M Forest Service
• The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department
• The American Red Cross
• The Salvation Army
• The United Way

We would also like to thank the many volunteers who came to our aid. These volunteers provided a variety of services, including helping to clean up debris, distribute food and water, and provide emotional support to those affected by the hurricane.

The outpouring of support from our disaster response partners and the community was truly overwhelming, and we are grateful for all of their help.

Thank you for your continued support.