DEVINE, Texas – Devine Volunteer Fire Department converted an excess Stewart Stevenson into a firefighting machine thanks to a cost share grant that helped purchase a 400-gallon slip-on unit. The truck was awarded through the Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program (DoD FFP) and the slip-on grant was acquired through the Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program, both administered by Texas A&M Forest Service.
One of the stipulations when receiving an excess military truck is that it be painted a nonmilitary color and be service ready in 180 days.
“The volunteers in the department mounted the slip-on unit which has a large water tank and foam capability,giving us notablyincreased ability for firefighting,” said Devine VFD Deputy Fire Chief Michael Walker.
The foam system is used for fire suppression. It cools the fire and coats the fuel, preventing contact with oxygen. The firefighter spreads a blanket of foam on the area involved, smothering the fire, and decreasing the possibility of it reigniting.
“The department purchased a very nice pump package that will help increase their capacity to fight wildland fires and will be a great benefit to the whole community and mutual aid area,” said Texas A&M Forest Service Regional Fire Coordinator Timothy Pierson.
Walker stated that the truck is very rugged and will withstand the challenges of the local terrain when there is a fire in the rough rural areas.
“We want to thank our community for their support that made this conversion possible,” said Walker. “There were even some individuals that had a bar-b-q and donated the proceeds to our department, it was greatly appreciated.”
Devine VFD has been serving their area since 1929 and has open enrollment for volunteers who would like to be trained and support the community by volunteering. For more information on how to apply call (830) 665-4264.
Texas A&M Forest Service is committed to protecting lives and property through various fire department assistance programs. The Department of Defense Firefighter Property Program launched in Texas in 2005, is one such program and has released over 800 retired military trucks to Volunteer Fire Departments across the state. The Agency transports the vehicle from a military installation, performs necessary repairs and delivers it to the volunteer fire department at no cost to them. The USDA Forest Service oversees the program nationwide and is the supplier of the excess military equipment to fire departments and emergency service providers.
For more information on programs offered by Texas A&M Forest Service, please visit http://texasfd.com.