Volunteer Fire Departments often receive training to learn current firefighter response
strategies. Hubbard VFD has participated in various training schools to further their knowledge of firefighting
and increase awareness of firefighter safety. Having the right equipment is another aspect of a successful
response. The department received an equipment cost share grant through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department
Assistance Program to help purchase radios, Jaws-of-Life, fire hose and a computer.
“Communication on a fire scene is vital for the safety of firefighters and reinforces ground observations
concerning the condition of the fire,” said Department President/Treasure Will Geltmeier. “We are glad to have
the new radios to help us keep well-informed of the situation while in response.”
The city of Hubbard serves as a crossroads with State Highways 31 and 171 running through it, giving travelers
access to Interstate 35 and I-45.
“The new Jaws-of-Life extrication tools that we received will not only benefit our community but travelers as
well,” said Geltmeier. “The new set of jaws have already been used in response to four vehicle accidents.”
The extrication tools are battery operated and much lighter.
“Having the up-to-date tools that are faster and easier to implement is important,” said Geltmeier. “They are
easier to set up and can save time in a situation when time is of the essence.”
Hubbard Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their community since 1928 and currently has open
enrollment for volunteers. An application can be picked up at the department located at 116 North Magnolia
Avenue in Hubbard the second or fourth Monday of each month at 7 p.m.
Volunteer Fire Department support comes from fund raisers and community support.
“Our community has always been supportive,” said Geltmeier. “We appreciate their backing which helps to
meet daily operational needs of the department.”
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.