Receiving a $65,000 cost share grant was the key to helping purchase a 2019 small brush truck and a slip-on unit for the Pursley Volunteer Fire Department. The grant is through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“We doubled our service area since January so this new truck will help us in responding to our growing rural area,” said Fire Chief Mark Burleson. “The dual function apparatus is quick, easy to maneuver and though it can carry a driver and three firefighters, it can be operated by one firefighter/driver if the need should arise.”
The addition of a 200-gallon water tank, 20-gallon foam tank, backup camera, and front and back bumper spray nozzles complete the package for the new truck.
“As a dual-function truck, it will not only be used to respond to grass fires but will carry equipment for medical first aid and traffic control,” said Burleson.
The department was established in 1980 and continues to look for better ways to serve their community. Anyone wanting to volunteer may request an application by visiting the departments Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/pursleyvfd/ or call (903) 654-4042.
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.