Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 pumper/tender to their fleet to help increase the capacity of their department thanks to a $200,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“This is a dual function apparatus that can carry 1,000 gallons of water and has foam capability with a 25-gallon foam tank,” said Bergheim VFD Fire Chief Adam Hawkins. “We can use it as a tanker and tender that will be very beneficial in increasing the water supply within our response area. It is in service, we recently used it to help fight a grass fire.”
The new apparatus can carry four firefighters with all of their equipment including self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) that are docked in the cab. It has a lot of storage where every piece of equipment has its place so each tool can be utilized quickly, increasing safety and decreasing response time.
“This truck not only helps increase our capacity to fight fires but it will also help with reducing the ISO insurance rating for our community,” said Hawkins. “We appreciate Texas A&M Forest Service having the grant programs available to help volunteer fire departments and we appreciate the support of our community, without both we would not be able to add this truck to our fleet.”
Due to the current COVID-19 situation the department will be unable to have their regular fund raiser. They will instead implement a donation drive called “Power up Engine 33”. To donate or learn more about the Bergheim Volunteer Fire Department visit http://bergheimvfd.org/.
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.