MATHIS, Texas — Mathis Volunteer Fire Department received a $110,000 cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to help purchase a new large brush truck and a slip-on unit. The program is administered by the Texas A&M Forest Service.
“This new apparatus has a 1,000-gallon water tank and a 20-gallon foam tank,” said Fire Chief Adrian Ramirez. “The foam will help increase the effectiveness of the water, giving us greater knock-down power when fighting wildland fires.”
According to Ramirez about 43 percent of their calls are wildland or grass fires. The county has some areas with rough terrain, and the new truck will allow easier access when responding to those types of calls.
“The truck can also be used for vehicle and structure fires if needed,” said Ramirez. “We are very thankful to Texas A&M Forest Service for having the grant programs available and to our community and surrounding area for their support that helped make this truck purchase possible.”
The Mathis Volunteer Fire Department has been providing fire service to their area since 1940 and has open enrollment for volunteers who would like to serve their community as a volunteer firefighter. For an application, call Fire Chief Ramirez at (361) 533-7022.
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.