When severe weather approaches Oklahoma, volunteer firefighters go on alert, tracking lightning strikes and patrolling flood-prone areas while urging residents to avoid flooded roads.

First responders across Oklahoma, including rural volunteer firefighters, are on standby as severe weather approaches the area.

At Rolling Hills Fire Station in Catoosa, Assistant Chief James Baker reports that 95 percent of his crew consists of volunteers, all of whom have been put on alert. Baker says he has been closely monitoring news channels, and emergency operation centers, and staying in touch with emergency management as part of the station's severe weather preparedness.

Baker notes that his team actively tracks lightning strikes due to the increased risk of house fires, like the one they responded to last night. As rainfall continues, firefighters are patrolling flood-prone areas to ensure rapid response in case of emergencies.

Rolling Hills Fire Station serves as an all-hazards response team, equipped to handle diverse situations.

"We have members that are technical rescue trained in ropes, swift water rescue. We do have swift water rescue equipment, boats -- whatever we have to do to take care of that emergency and mitigate that threat we have that capability," said Baker.

Baker also reminded residents to heed the "turn around, don't drown" warning, urging people to avoid driving through flooded areas and to find alternative routes when necessary.