Turnersville Volunteer Fire Department received a cost share grant to help purchase
rescue equipment that will help to increase the departments capacity to save lives in their community and
surrounding area. The grant was awarded through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program
administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
“We purchased several pieces of rescue equipment which included a thermal imaging camera,” said
Turnersville VFD Fire Chief Allan Thompson. “This is a first for our department and the members have trained
on its use and are prepared to put it into service whether in detecting hot spots or possible smoldering fire inside
a wall or search and rescue for a lost victim, it will be extremely useful.”
The department also purchased various tools to be utilized during rescue operations.
“There are two Farm-to-Market roads in our service area and within the last six months we have responded to
an overturned 18-wheeler and a vehicle accident where a victim had to be cut out of the car,” said Thompson.
“The new Jaws will allow for a quicker response because of less setup time needed and with the tools being
quieter it will be easier to communicate with an entrapped victim. The air bags will allow us to lift an
overturned vehicle or farm equipment.”
Fire Chief Thompson expressed his appreciation to the community for their continued support as well as to all
the volunteers that give their time to respond to emergency calls. The department’s cost share portion for the
grant was met by the community purchasing bags of ice, bottled water and vending machine products at the fire
station.
“Our department started 20 years ago with no equipment and no firefighting gear, thanks to equipment and
training grants through Texas A&M Forest Service we now serve the community in a safe and educated
manner,” said Thompson. “We offer training opportunities to those who would like to apply to be a volunteer.
Those wishing to apply may call (254) 499-0169.”
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