CONROE, Texas –– A $13,882 grant from Texas A&M Forest Service helped Central Montgomery Co. VFD get a much needed piece of equipment.
The grant went toward purchasing a new thermal imaging camera, which will expedite the search and rescue process and increase the safety of the volunteers fighting the fires.
“The firefighter’s safety is our greatest concern,” Fire Chief Raymond Flannelly said. “They were working with a much older camera before.”
Flannelly stated that the difference between the old and new camera is unbelievable.
“I have been a fireman for 33 years and the technology we use is constantly changing,” Flannelly said. “This newer camera has a much clearer screen and is in 3D color. It has a laser that can be used to tell the other firefighters where the heat is, which is very useful in a smoke-filled room”
Over 85% of fire departments in the state of Texas are either completely or mostly operated by volunteers. TFS passes approximately $12.8 million along to volunteer fire departments across the state every year, helping them purchase equipment to better protect lives and property.
“This program is excellent,” Flannelly said. “With this technology, we can see more clearly in a zero-visibility environment and do quicker search and rescue.”
To learn more about this program visit texasfd.com.
