Replacing a 23-year-old hydraulic pump was a priority for Scenic Loop Volunteer Fire
Department. Thanks to a $12,300 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service the old piece of equipment will be
replaced with a new compact power source.
“The new pump is more compact, very light and easy to use. It is a valuable addition to Scenic Loop VFD’s rescue
equipment,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Ricky Holbrook.
“This type of pump is expensive to purchase. Without it, our equipment would be down and we would have to call
on other departments for assistance. It was put into service the day we received it,” Fire Chief Donald Marlow, Jr.
states.
The hydraulic pump enables firefighters to operate the Jaws of Life, an emergency rescue tool used for automobile
extrications, structural collapse rescues and forcible entry on various emergency scenes.
“The pump is crucial for our Jaws of Life rescue efforts. We will use it not only for vehicle extrication but also in
structure fires to rescue individuals trapped in their homes behind burglar bars covering windows or doors,” said
Chief Marlow.
Volunteer firefighters operate 85 percent of the fire departments in Texas. This year TFS will pass approximately
$24.3 million along to VFDs across the state. The grant funding aids them in purchasing equipment and obtaining
vital firefighter training, giving them greater capabilities to protect life and property in their communities.
“We service 39 square miles, not including the lake, and do mutual aid with Polk, Liberty, Trinity and Tyler
Counties,” states Marlow. “ It is important to the communities and surrounding areas for departments to have the
right tools. Without the TFS grants, the small departments would not be able to purchase the high dollar
equipment.”
To learn more about this program visit texasfd.com.