The Ander-Weser Volunteer Fire Department purchased an assortment of
rescue tools including a thermal imaging camera and stabilization and lift equipment. This was made possible
through a grant from Texas A&M Forest Service and the Rural VFD Assistance Program.
“The thermal imaging camera and stabilization and lift equipment are new additions to our department,” AnderWeser VFD Training Coordinator Chad Stauss said. “We have never had this type of equipment and we are
currently the only department for several miles around that has this type of rescue equipment available.”
New vehicle technology has created the need for more powerful tools. The newer rescue tools are manufactured
with greater capability, yet designed for the safety of the volunteer and the victim. They also reduce the number
of firefighters and setup time needed for extrication.
The city of Goliad has two major roads in its area, U.S. Highway 59 and State Highway 183. As summer
approaches and people head to the beach, Ander-Weser VFD is prepared for motor vehicle accidents that might
occur due to increased traffic.
“We have noticed a steady increase in accidents and decided that this equipment would be a great asset to our
community and surrounding area,” Stauss said. “Having the equipment available, paired with the training each
volunteer received, we will now be able to stabilize a damaged vehicle, lift the vehicle, and extricate the
occupants safely and in an efficient manner.”
While serving under Texas A&M AgriLife, Texas A&M Forest Service works with fire service cooperators
throughout the state to minimize the loss of life and property in response to wildfires and other all-hazard
emergencies. This year Texas A&M Forest Service is set to award approximately $24.3 million in grants to
volunteer fire departments for the purchase of equipment and training.
To learn more about this program, visit texasfd.com.