HFD is responsible for preserving life and property for a population of more than 2 million in an area totaling 654 square miles (1,690 km2).

[4] The administrative offices of HFD are located on the 17th floor of 500 Jefferson Street (a part of the Cullen Center) in Downtown Houston.

[5] They were previously located at the City of Houston Fire Department Logistical Center & Maintenance Depot.

[7] "Iron" Bill Dowling, who lost his legs and damaged his brain in the fire, died in Colorado on March 7, 2017, after a short hospitalization for pneumonia and cellulitis, attributed to his injuries.

First units arriving immediately started calling for help as the high winds were fanning flames across the wood shingle roofs.