Christy Fire Protection District

02/20/2026

Photos taken by a few of our firefighters. This would be the storm that struck Crawford Co this afternoon causing damage to several homes.

As always be prepared, not scared!

02/19/2026

Batten down the hatches, looks like we’re gearing up for some rough weather.

When you start seeing weather spotting crews grabbing coffee at the local Casey’s, you know it’s not just a sprinkle on the radar.

Now’s the time to make those preparations, charge your phones, secure loose items, review your safe place, and have a plan before the first warning hits.

Be prepared, not scared.

Photo from Firefighter Leland Bridwell

02/18/2026

We are continuing to monitor a severe weather threat for tomorrow. The Storm Prediction Center issued a 4-day heads up on this system, this is the first time they’ve done that since October.

At this time, we’re expecting an early afternoon to evening event, with the strongest storms likely moving through between 2 PM and 7 PM. Damaging winds, large hail, and a few tornadoes are possible.

Now is the time to have a plan in place. Make sure cell phones are charged, flashlights are ready, and you know where you will take shelter if warnings are issued.

We will continue to provide updates as more information becomes available. Stay Safe Friends!

02/17/2026

It looks like we’re sitting in the hot zone for potential severe weather Thursday afternoon and evening.

Forecast models will fine-tune things as we get closer, but what doesn’t need to wait is your preparation.

Now’s the time to:
• Review your severe weather plan
• Put fresh batteries in flashlights
• Charge phones and backup power banks
• Secure loose outdoor items
• Make sure everyone in your household knows where to go if warnings are issued

Prepared beats surprised every time.

We’ll continue to monitor the forecast and share updates as we get closer to Thursday. Stay weather aware.

02/13/2026

02/10/2026

After 38 years of faithful and honorable service, Chief Rick Leighty is stepping away from the fire service, leaving behind a legacy of courage, leadership, and unwavering dedication to our community. February 28, 2026, will mark Rick’s final day as Chief of the Bridgeport Fire Protection District.

Rick has proudly served the Bridgeport Fire Protection District since February 1988. During his tenure, he was promoted to Lieutenant, Captain, Assistant Chief, and ultimately began serving as Chief in 2007.

Beyond the badge, Chief Leighty has been a mentor, a friend, and a role model. Through long nights, difficult calls, and countless emergencies, Rick has been a steady leader and a source of strength, not only for the Bridgeport Fire Protection District, but for every emergency response agency throughout Lawrence County.

A career of this magnitude is never accomplished alone. Behind the scenes were the long nights his wife, Kim, faithfully endured while Rick answered the call to serve. Her unwavering support made his decades of service possible.

The countless lives he has impacted, the firefighters he has mentored, and the community he has safeguarded stand as a testament to an extraordinary career. His commitment to protecting lives and serving our community has made a lasting impact that will never be forgotten.

The badge may come off, but the respect and gratitude remain.

As Rick begins this next chapter, he looks forward to spending more quality time with his family - his wife Kim; their son Landon Sr. and family (Alex, Landon Jr. & Nicholas); their son Jordon and family (Natalie, Carson, & Brooks). They will now be his main focus.

Please join us in congratulating Chief Rick Leighty on a well-earned retirement. We thank you for your service, your sacrifice, and your leadership.

As one chapter closes, another begins. Ashley Ryan has been appointed as the new Chief of the Bridgeport Fire Protection District, effective February 28, 2026.

Enjoy this next chapter, Chief—you have more than earned it.

02/09/2026

Our MABAS70 partners at Claremont-Bonpas Fire Protection District requested one of our Tenders (Tanker) while working a structure fire this morning.
Fun fact: Christy Fire has 11,000+ gallons of mobile water rolling in our district. That’s a big deal when you’re fighting fire in rural areas where hydrants are not always available.

Neighbors helping neighbors.

02/09/2026

We have released our storm spotter training schedule for this year!

Spotter training covers severe weather hazards including thunderstorms and tornadoes, safety concerns, planning for and anticipating severe thunderstorms, general storm structure and movement, and identification of important storm features. There are also interactive portions of the sessions.

Classes run from about 1.5 to 2 hours in length, and are free and open to the public.

The full schedule, including details on locations, is available on our web page at https://www.weather.gov/ilx/spotter

02/06/2026

Congratulations Heather!
We always enjoy seeing you on scene!

02/03/2026

Tonight at Station 1, we reviewed and renewed our CPR certifications. Keeping these skills sharp ensures we’re always ready to help when seconds matter most.
Thanks Carla for coming over and working with us!

01/29/2026

The Lawrence County Historical Society is bringing Sumner’s story to life with a special presentation on the history of our hometown.

Refreshments are courtesy of the City of Sumner, so come out, grab a seat, and enjoy an afternoon filled with local history, interesting stories, and a deeper appreciation for the place we call home.

01/25/2026

We’ve received around 13 inches of snow, and it’s still coming down.
Road conditions are poor, and travel is strongly discouraged unless absolutely necessary.

A big thank you to Justin Meeks for clearing our slip. We truly appreciate the help!