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them .
One of those units that came into the spotlight recently , the Stephens County Task Force , consists of 12 fire departments in Stephens County that Curtis helps lead .
“ Our Stephens County Task Force is second to none . They are made up from our 12 fire departments in Stephens County ,” Curtis said . “ They assist each other in fires or any other disaster , as well as travel as a Strike Force when needed in other areas of the state to assist other communities in wild fires , search and rescues , or any disasters that have over taxed their first responders .”
In the event of a prolonged event , Curtis said crews switch out at the end of a 24-hour work period .
At the time of writing this story , two different sets of strike team groups were deployed to one fire request .
While a day ’ s schedule can change for Curtis , especially during storm season , he believes his flexibility is the preparation for any situation .
“ The seasons are a very important factor in my day . As anyone that has lived in Oklahoma , especially Southwest Oklahoma , we know that no matter the season , we may have several seasons hit us at any time ,” Curtis said . “ I could say that my day usually goes hand-in-hand with what has occurred the previous day , and what I see coming in the near future . All in all an Emergency Manager has to do the best to their ability to be prepared for any situation .”
Despite the summer heat and storm season soon passing and fall quickly approaching , Curtis encourages those in Stephens County to register their safe rooms or cellars to help in preparation for an emergency .
“ I am continually asking for
ABOVE : A FIRE IN STEPHENS COUNTY RAGES AND DESTROYS A HOME . BELOW : A GRASS FIRE THAT HAPPENED IN FEBRUARY 2022 IN MERIDIAN CLOSED IN ON CATTLE IN THE FIELDS AND CAUSED SOME EVACUATIONS .
registrations for their ( ISR ) individual safe rooms or in our older terms , cellars ,” Curtis said . “ This helps prepare firefighters and first responders in the instance of a tornado or severe weather , to be able to check on the individual if a tornado or severe weather may have caused them to be trapped in their ISR . I am looking at other safety programs as well as our CERT ( Civilian Emergency Response Teams ) to provide more training when requested .”
For more information , contact Curtis at Stephens County Emergency Management by calling 580-255-3411 or by emailing stcoem @ stephenscountyok . org or visit the Stephens County Emergency Management website at www . stephenscountyok . com .
The Stephens County Emergency Management office is located in the Stephens County Courthouse at 101 S . 11th St ., Room 108 . DM
18 DUNCAN MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2022