Cool-Garner Volunteer Fire Department now has a new addition to their department that allows them to transport 1,000 gallons of water for initial attack on a structure or wildland fire thanks to a Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistant grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“Engine 43 is our first-out engine capable of pumping 1,500 gallons of water per minute,” said Cool-Garner VFD Fire Chief Rodney Robertson. “It has four discharges that will release water mixed with a foaming agent to insure a quick knock-down of a fire. The engine also has emergency scene lighting, back-up and right-side camera and a hundred feet of front bumper line.”
The department members have received training to become familiar with the new engine that will also carry SCBA (Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus), and firefighting and rescue equipment. The tools will allow the department to be prepared for any situation.
“I have been with the department for 22 years and fire chief 18 years and prior to this truck we always had used apparatus, so I appreciate the community, Parker County ESD board members and Texas A&M Forest Service for helping to make this purchase possible,” said Robertson. “It has gone into service and will serve our growing community well.”
The department has open enrollment for volunteers and welcomes anyone wanting to be trained. An application may be picked up at the fire department at 2290 Garner-School Road in Weatherford.
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.