DIBOLL, Texas –– Diboll Volunteer Fire Department has enhanced its fire service capabilities with the
help of an $18,000 grant administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
The HB 2604 grant went toward purchasing a new slip-on unit for one of the department’s existing trucks,
allowing them to retire an older 1978 model truck.
“We didn’t have the funding to get this much-needed equipment,” Fire Chief Darrell Roberts said. “The
truck we were able to replace was having a lot of maintenance issues.”
TFS provides eligible VFDs with programs designed to enhance their ability to protect the public and fire
service personnel from fire and related hazards.
“This program has been very beneficial for us, and I know many VFDs across the state of Texas really
appreciate it,” Roberts said. “With this new unit, we are now able to respond quicker and reach places we
couldn’t get to before.”
The VFD previously operated with larger trucks that were difficult to maneuver into tight spaces.
“This new unit will help them get to areas that most of their trucks couldn’t get to,” Resource Specialist
Clay Hensarling said. “It will allow them to get to the fires at better angles.”
Over 85% of fire departments in the state of Texas are either completely or mostly operated by
volunteers. TFS passes approximately $12.8 million along to volunteer fire departments across the state
every year, helping them purchase equipment to better protect lives and property.
To learn more about this program,m visit http://texasfd.com.