ROCHELLE, Texas – Placid Community Volunteer Fire Department added a 2021 International brush truck to
their fleet, with its primary mission being large fires and rescue. The truck can carry 1,000 gallons of water, has
drafting capabilities,s and responds well as a fast attack apparatus.
“There isn’t access to water in our county, so having the capacity to carry a large amount of water to a fire scene
and being able to stay at the scene longer before having to refill with water increases our capabilities for quicker
and more successful fire suppression,” said Placid Community VFD Fire Chief Les Brooks.
In July 2020 Placid Community Volunteer Fire Department was one of the ground crews that faithfully fought
the Gate 5 Fire that burned 13,000 acres. The department’s new addition increases their fleet firefighting power
and prepares them for any future fire events in their area.
“Our department appreciates Texas A&M Forest Service having cost-share grants available to volunteer fire
departments, and we thank the community and the G. Rollie White Foundation for funds that helped us meet our
cost share portion,” said Brooks.
Placid Community VFD has been serving their area since 1998 and has open enrollment for volunteers who
would like to be trained and donate time for response. An application may be obtained through any department
member or come by the station at 205 Front Street in Rochelle.
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.