Vicksburg and Warren County prepare to dispatch aid to Rolling Fork

On Monday, Fire Boss Jerry Briggs, Vicksburg Fire Chief Derrick Stamps and Warren County Board of Supervisors President Kelle Barfield met with Vicksburg Daily News to discuss the dispatch of assistance to aid in tornado emergency efforts to the north in Rolling Fork. Responders from Warren County and the City of Vicksburg will be working together to provide assistance.

The Vicksburg Fire Department will be sending six firefighters, one pumper and a support vehicle to provide fire service and basic medical services.

“They’ve had a hard time getting all the resources they need on a consistent basis up in Sharkey County,” said Barfield.

According to Briggs, the water towers are out of commission, creating a hurdle for firefighters to secure a water source.

Warren County will be supplying a 2,000-gallon tanker. Due to county firefighters being mostly volunteer, manpower is in short supply. However, crews from Vicksburg will be handling the use of the tanker.

“We’re just going to go up there and be supportive, helping neighbors and whatever needs they need [from] emergency response,” said Stamps.

Since the tornado was declared a federal disaster, FEMA will be reimbursing the city and county for mileage and other costs associated. There will be no expense to the taxpayer.

The crew is scheduled to return Friday at 2 p.m.