Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department received a $9,700 grant through the
Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a multi force training door.
“We are pleased to have received a training aid grant to help purchase a piece of equipment that is a first for
Trinity County,” said Apple Springs VFD President Gary Mathison. “It will not only be useful to our
department, but we will offer training to surrounding volunteer fire departments.”
The new training prop increases firefighter knowledge with a hands-on experience.
“This new multi-force training door will allow firefighters to effectively assess the situation and apply what
they have learned while using this door,” said Mathison. “The experience makes a world of difference and
allows our department to train on how to use our various tools on left and right swing doors because the
approach is different depending on which side of the door that the hinges are on and getting in quickly means
getting water on the fire faster.”
The door is unique and realistic, a good representation of doors encountered in day-to-day firefighting.
“The fire world is constantly changing and keeping up with the most current, efficient and timely training
techniques is important,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Ricky Holbrook. “The
versatility of this tool gives the department the ability to add depth to their training.”
Apple Springs Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their area since 1972 and wish to thank their
community for continued support that helps with the daily operations of the department.
Currently there is open enrollment for volunteers that would like to serve the people of their area and learn new
skills while being a part of the Apple Springs VFD. To apply please call (936) 831-3711 for more information.
Texas A&M Forest Service is committed to protecting lives and property through the Rural Volunteer Fire
Department Assistance Program, a cost share program funded by Texas State Legislature and administered by
Texas A&M Forest Service. This program provides funding to rural Volunteer Fire Departments for the
acquisition of firefighting vehicles, fire and rescue equipment, protective clothing, dry-hydrants, computer
systems and firefighter training.
For more information on programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service, please visit http://texasfd.com.