Meet your Carlton Firefighters!

This is going to be the first of many introductions to YOUR Carlton Firefighters! We want to highlight the amazing people in our communities who showcase the best qualities around!

For our first "Firefighter Interview," we'd like to introduce you to Houston Smith.

Houston Smith, Firefighter

A little get to know me: "Hi, I'm Houston Smith. I'm 21 years old, and I'm originally from Mountain Home, Texas. I'm currently attending Tarleton State University and pursuing my major in AG Industries & Agencies. I've been around firefighting my whole life, as all my family members are also volunteer firefighters. I joined my home department (Divide VFD) the week I turned 18 and have been as active as possible over the past three years. Recently, I decided to branch out and earn my Swiftwater Rescue certification, and I'm planning to participate in a Fire Department Rescue Team. After working with Carlton VFD during the Hill Country Floods, and my current home being at the edge of Erath County, I decided to pursue joining Carlton VFD when we had all returned home. I joined Carlton VFD back in mid-July and have been continuing my training and education with both departments."

We also asked a series of "more intense" questions to try and get a little bit deeper with our firefighters. While we won't list every single question and response, we'll pick out a few good ones!

Firefighter Houston Smith, pictured while wearing his home department's shirt, as we crossed the Guadalupe River.

In your personal opinion, what are the most important qualities that a firefighter (or other first responder) must possess?

"I'd have to say just basic common sense and the ability to handle uncomfortable situations."

In your opinion, what are the most challenging parts of being a firefighter (or other first responder), both mentally and physically?

"Mentally, I would say being able to handle whatever bad things you may see. Physically, probably just being able to go on for hours and hours whenever it's needed."

How would you interact with the public, especially in high-stress situations or when dealing with a distressed citizen?

"Just always try to stay as calm and relaxed as you can, because that will help keep others calm as well."

What do you think are the biggest challenges facing the fire service today?

"I think the biggest challenge today is Volunteer numbers. I've seen multiple VFDs with fewer than 10 members, and it's hard to be efficient and to help everyone with so little help.

How do you personally manage to cope with the stress and trauma of being a firefighter?

"What has always helped me is knowing that all of it is to help others, so I'm more than willing to carry the weight of those stressful and traumatic situations so others don't have to."

What is one thing you would tell someone who is considering joining a Volunteer Fire Department?

"It is one of the best ways to help people and actually make a true difference, but be prepared for the tough experiences that come with it.

Firefighter Houston Smith, pictured third from the right, finishing his Swiftwater Rescue classes.

Firefighter Houston Smith has proved his worth tenfold. Living in Erath County, his time and fuel sacrifices alone are substantial, but he does everything he can for others! Houston has gone through several trainings within both departments he has worked with, and is always ready for more knowledge. He is dedicated, driven, and knows no bounds when it comes to helping others in any way he can.

Carlton VFD Chief, Drew Barr: "Houston may be new, but he can keep up with everyone. He works hard, trains for every possible situation, and is overall a pretty exemplary individual. I've now had the privilege of working with him for the past few months, and I'd trust him with my life in a heartbeat. The bonds you make in the Fire Department are unmatched, and I'm beyond lucky to have gotten to work alongside this guy this far. He's a constant, calm individual, and it's always spilling over, helping to keep everyone around him calm as well. His dedication not only pushes him further, but also pushes the rest of us to train and work with him."

Divide VFD Firefighter, Cenisa Crider: "Houston has always been willing to go the extra mile (literally) to help his communities! He is hardworking, loyal, and always willing to help in any way possible. He has always been able to remain a calm and steady presence during emergency situations."

Carlton VFD Firefighter, Kyler Clay: "He's very calm under pressure. No matter what we came up against, he was always very logical and steady. You can just tell he has drive, passion, and knowledge for this stuff."

He has been described by other firefighters as "a nice guy," "hardworking," and "overall, a calm space." Divide VFD even made mention of him prior during the Hill Country Floods back in July of 2025, saying: "When this storm affected his home county, he answered the call. He hasn't just been boots on the ground with the rest of his members; he's been driving 3.5 hours one way every day he comes in. He gets up, drives to The Divide, goes to assignment, drives home, does his day job on the ranch, sleeps (maybe), and does it all over again the next day."

Houston is an outstanding member of both Carlton VFD and Divide VFD, and we're beyond lucky to have him working with us!