Austonio Volunteer Fire Department in Houston County received a $19,000
grant for new fire and rescue equipment. The department purchased three air packs and face masks, that
will replace old equipment.
The department is making strides in protecting its firefighters. “The new equipment is safer and will
make our firefighters lives easier. They can trust the equipment now, and move easier in emergency
situations” said Billy Albright, Second Assistant Fire Chief.
“We would like to thank Texas A&M Forest Service for providing funding to small departments, that
would not be able to afford the equipment otherwise,” said Albright.
The Austonio Volunteer Fire Department is always recruiting new members. Anyone interested in
joining can email [email protected] for more information.
As a member agency of the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M Forest Service administers the
Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and is committed to protecting lives, property and
natural resources. The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program is funded by the Texas
Legislature and provides cost-share 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, visit texasfd.com.