The McGregor Volunteer Fire Department added a number of rescue and safety items to
their cache, thanks to a cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program
administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“The addition of a vehicle stabilization kit which includes struts and air bags will help increase the capacity of
our department when used to steady or raise a vehicle after an accident,” said Fire Chief Marty Dominguez.
“The equipment will allow for a safer extrication of a victim.”
The extrication process may involve removal of a car roof, window or door and calls for a very delicate but
extreme technique. Proper stabilization allows the first responder quicker access to the individual, minimizing
the likelihood of the vehicle shifting during the process and lessening the chance of further injury to the victim.
“More people and companies are moving into our response area, Highway 84 has expanded and there is an
increase in 18-wheeler traffic,” said Dominguez. “The new tools will be a tremendous benefit to our
community.”
The department also received a Self-Contained Breathing Apparatus (SCBA) filling station that will safely
recharge two bottles at a time. The SCBA are very important to firefighters because the bottles allow them to
have breathable air in an immediately dangerous to life or health atmosphere.
“Safety is priority with our department so receiving this grant was very valuable to us,” said Dominguez.
“Whether rescuing individuals from a smoke filled structure or an extrication after a vehicle accident, when it is
all over, we want all of our volunteers to be able to go home. This new equipment will help to ensure that.”
The department has two fund raisers a year and sells bar-b-q at the Founders Day Festival. The proceeds go
towards training expenses and updating or replacing worn equipment. The volunteers appreciate the community
supporting these events.
McGregor VFD has been serving their area since 1924. They have open enrollment for anyone wishing to give
back to the community by volunteering. To apply come by the fire station located at 302 South Madison in
McGregor any Tuesday night 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.