Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department accepted a $19,600 grant through the Texas A&M
Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program to purchase much needed rescue equipment. The
cost share portion was provided through fund raising by the department.
“We are pleased to have received a grant to purchase more efficient rescue tools,” said Pleasanton VFD Fire Chief
Chuck Garris. “The equipment is dependable, powerful and easier to operate.”
The ram, spreader and cutter, most commonly known as jaws-of-life is battery operated, eliminating the need to set up
a motor or generator and hoses which are normally used with a hydraulic system.
“This system allows for a fast set up when time is of the essence,” said Garris. “There isn’t any waiting around to get
the tools hooked up. We just arrive and get to work freeing the victim from the wreckage.”
New vehicle technology has created the need for more powerful tools. According to Garris, the battery on the tools
will last 45 minutes and produces 25,000 pounds of spreading pressure. The newer rescue tools are designed for the
safety of the volunteer and the victim. They not only reduce the setup time needed for extrication but also the number
of firefighters needed to operate the tool.
“Our department responds to a lot vehicle accidents on Interstate 37 and most of Atascosa County,” said Garris.
“Having updated tools is very important to saving lives.”
The tools were used for an extrication on the first day of being in service.
Pleasanton Volunteer Fire Department has been serving their community since 1930. The department has open
enrollment for any committed individual who would like to receive training and give back to the community. An
application may be picked up at the fire station, 219 West Hunt Street, any Monday evening at 7:30 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.