Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department accepted a cost share grant through the Rural
Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase lifesaving rescue equipment.
“Our department is very pleased to replace our more cumbersome rescue equipment with cutting-edge tools,” said Groesbeck VFD Fire Chief Pat Samuels.
The department received a battery-operated cutter and spreader which are compact extrication tools.
“These updated tools expand our ability to quickly assist in extrication of entrapped crash victims after a vehicle
accident,” said Samuels. “On the average, every 10-12 accidents in our area call for the use of this type of
equipment to pop a door or make a relief cut and then pry open a vehicle’s roof giving quick access to a
victim.”
The new cutter and spreader can also be used for other small space rescues or for entry into a burning structure
when the entryway is locked.
Texas State Highways 164 and 14 are main arteries through Groesbeck.
“The members of the Groesbeck VFD are dedicated to serving their community,” said Texas A&M Forest
Service Regional Fore Coordinator Matthew Schlaefer. “Having the right rescue tools could make the
difference in saving a life in their local area or those just traveling through.”
Groesbeck Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their community since 1891 and appreciates the
community’s continued monetary support.
“Our department values our community and its continuous backing and assistance that has helped Groesbeck
VFD continue to maintain fire and rescue service not only in the community but in mutual aid with surrounding
departments,” said Samuels.
The department has open enrollment for anyone wishing to be trained as a volunteer. For more information
please call (254) 495-9921.
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.