Cisco Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost share grant to help purchase new extrication tools which include a cutter and spreader and are more commonly known as Jaws-of-life. The grant was through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“Our department replaced a set of 1988 Hurst rescue tools with a new light weight battery operated set,” said Fire Chief Walter Fairbanks. “They are easier and faster to set up and operate. The tools will also be useful when responding in county wide mutual aid.”
Cisco is located on Interstate 20 and Highway 183 where the department responds to as many as 100 vehicle accidents a year.
“The new tools have already been put into service,” said Fairbanks. “They were used after several vehicle accidents on Interstate 20 during a rainstorm.”
Cisco VFD has been serving their community since 1881 and are always looking for ways to update and improve their fire service.
The department received inhouse training on the use of the tools and appreciates having them on their first out frontline engine.
“I wish to thank our community and city for their support in helping make this purchase possible and Texas A&M Forest Service for the opportunity to add these tools to our cache,” said Fairbanks.
The department has open enrollment for new volunteers. Anyone interested in applying may come by the station anytime at 411 Conrad Hilton in Cisco and pick up an application or visit www.ciscofd.com
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.