The Center Point Volunteer Fire Department doubles its water carrying volume by replacing a 1991 water tender. They added a new 2018 tender that carries 2,500 gallons of water and will help to increase the department’s firefighting capacity. The tender was purchased with a $200,000 cost share grant through the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.
A water tender, also known as a tanker in some regions, is a specialized firefighting apparatus designed for transporting water from a water source to a fire scene.
“Due to our areas lack of fire hydrants, this truck will help to meet the needs of our community and mutual aid response area,” said Center Point VFD Fire Chief Charles Holt.
The truck also has a 3,000-gallon water drop tank and increased storage space for equipment.
“Most of the time we can knock a fire down pretty fast, but having the capability to drop water and continue to shuttle water is a plus,” said Holt.
Center Point VFD has been serving their community of 2,250 since 1954.
“The longevity of the department is because of the commitment and dedication from local residents who volunteer their time to not only fight fires but to attend classes on safety and proper firefighting technique,” said Holt.
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.