Locust Community Volunteer Fire Department recently added a 3,000-gallon water tanker to their fleet thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“The focus for this 2021 truck is carrying water to fight fires,” said Locust VFD Fire Chief Timothy Thomas. “It will be a very dependable water source in our rural areas since it can carry such a large quantity and also has a drop tank of equal capacity.”
Without question, fire can spread rapidly. In a difficult suppression operation, having a large quantity of water is required to allow fire crews to contain a fire quicker and be more successful with a knock-down.
“We also had the cab equipped with a Self Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) jump seat so that if two firefighters are responding to a structure fire one can safely be suited up and ready to fight fire upon arrival,” said Thomas.
The truck is in service and has been used in several structural responses. “Locust Community VFD appreciates our community during this period of COVID-19. They were very supportive with donations and fundraising response,” said Thomas.
The department has been serving their area since 1971 and has open enrollment for volunteers.
“A lot of communities have fire service provided by volunteers,” said Thomas. “I would encourage everyone to reach out to their local VFD and see what it takes to join and what role they can play. Not all positions involve fighting fire.”
To apply with Locust Community VFD email [email protected].
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.