Palestine Fire Department

Smoke Testing Notice – Beginning June 1, 2026

During the next few days, RJN Group, an engineering consultant hired by the City of Palestine, will perform a physical survey of the wastewater collection system in your neighborhood. The study involves opening manholes in streets and backyard utility easements and requires the use of smoke to gather information that will later be used to repair and improve the system.

Smoke testing is used on sewer lines to locate breaks and defects. During this testing, smoke will exit through vent pipes on the roofs of homes and through breaks in sewer lines. The smoke is non-toxic, leaves no residue, and creates no fire hazard. Smoke should not enter your home unless defective plumbing exists or the drain traps are dry.

If you have seldom-used drains and would like to prevent smoke from entering your home, please pour a gallon of water into the unused drains to fill the drain traps. This will help prevent smoke from entering living areas through the drains.

AT NO TIME WILL FIELD CREWS NEED TO ENTER YOUR BUSINESS OR RESIDENCE.

The locations for smoke testing are shown on the attached map. There is a slight possibility that smoke may be observed just outside of these boundaries.

If you have any additional questions concerning the study or need special assistance, please contact Joseph Colley at 972-437-4300.

Our thoughts are with City of Tyler Fire Department today as they grieve the loss of a great friend, colleague and overall person.

During Police Week 2026, the Palestine Fire Department proudly recognizes and thanks the dedicated officers of the Palestine Police Department for their service, sacrifice, and commitment to protecting our community every day.

As part of the Palestine Fire Department, our Fire Marshal’s Office works closely with law enforcement in fire investigations, arson cases, code enforcement, public safety education, and emergency response. Fire Marshals serve as certified peace officers who help protect lives and property through investigations, inspections, and fire prevention efforts throughout our city.

We are grateful for the strong partnership we share with the Palestine Police Department and appreciate the professionalism, courage, and dedication their officers demonstrate daily.

Thank you to all law enforcement officers who serve with honor and integrity. Your commitment to keeping our community safe does not go unnoticed!

Happy International Firefighters Day!

Today, we honor the incredible bravery and dedication of all firefighters who put their lives on the line to keep our communities safe.

We are especially grateful for the heroes of the Palestine Fire Department for their tireless service to Palestine, Texas.

To all firefighters, we thank you for your selflessness, courage, and commitment to serving and protecting your communities!

Stay weather aware!

8:37 PM CDT — A couple of severe storms are moving into East Texas this evening.

One storm is northwest of Fairfield, moving east toward Palestine, while another is moving from near Madisonville toward Trinity. Large hail is the main concern, along with frequent lightning and heavy rain.

No tornado concerns at the moment, but these storms can still pack a punch. Stay indoors if they move over your area.

Track radar here: https://texasstormchasers.com/radar/

Your Palestine Firefighters in action today!

Stay weather aware!

Severe thunderstorms are expected today across much of North and Central Texas. Large hail greater than baseballs will be the primary threat. Be weather aware and have multiple ways to receive warnings! Stay safe today y'all!

🚨 TRAINING DAY: Vehicle Extrication with New Tools

Today, firefighters conducted hands-on vehicle extrication training using some of our rescue tools. Continuous training ensures we are ready when seconds matter most.

During this training, crews practiced:

-Stabilizing vehicles to prevent movement via airbags and rescue struts
-Removing doors and roofs using hydraulic cutters & spreaders
-Rapid patient access and coordinated victim removal
-Scene safety and teamwork under realistic conditions

The addition of these updated tools enhances:
✔️ Faster access to trapped patients
✔️ Improved safety for both victims and responders
✔️ Greater efficiency in complex rescue scenarios

Training like this prepares us to better serve and protect our community when serious motor vehicle accidents occur. We are committed to staying progressive, prepared, and professional.

We would also like to say thanks to AIM Recycling for their continued support and providing us with cars to use for training!!