Elmwood Volunteer Fire Department added a 2019 Freightliner water tender to their fleet, increasing their capacity to serve their community and surrounding area.
“This tender is replacing a 1976 truck that was difficult to drive,” said Fire Chief Clyde Cunningham. “This new apparatus has a 2,000-gallon water tank and will be able to shuttle enough water to help with a quick knock down on the initial attack of a structure or wildland fire.”
The truck has four-wheel drive and will carry wildland equipment, self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and extra hose.
“Elmwood VFD took delivery of a versatile tender designed for easy operation and efficient application,” said Josh Bardwell Texas A&M Forest Service RFC. “From front bumper monitor to in-cab controls, the department has firefighter and public safety forefront.”
The department members received training to familiarize them with the placement of controls and driving the tender. It is in service, ready for a quick response if needed.
The tender purchase was made possible with a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
The department has been serving their community since 1978 and has open enrollment for anyone wanting to volunteer. To pick up an application come to a meeting at the fire station located at 110 ACR 4452 in Palestine any first, third or fourth Tuesday of the month at 7 p.m.
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.