Ferris Fire Department received a $20,000 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service
Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program. The grant was used to purchase an Artic
Compressor that will be used to fill Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) bottles.
The department has struggled with the lag time between SCBA bottle refills and relied on other fire
departments as a fill resource. SCBA’s are vital during fire emergencies and Ferris Fire Department is
now able to ensure that all members are equipped and safe during responses.
“The process to get the grant was painless, and the communication between us and Texas A&M Forest
Service was excellent,” said Brian Horton, Ferris Fire Department Fire Chief. “We are very appreciative
for the equipment we have received through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.”
Ferris Fire Department is looking for new members to join the department. Interested parties can call
(972) 544-2225 for information.
As a member agency of the Texas A&M University System, Texas A&M Forest Service administers the
Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program and is committed to protecting lives, property and
natural resources. The Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program is funded by the Texas
Legislature and provides cost-share 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, visit texasfd.com.