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West Texas Fire Departments Face New Threat During Holidays
West Texas Fire Departments Face New Threat During Holidays 11/28/12
Fbolton3@gmail.com
CBS 7 News Reporter
November 28, 2012
ANDREWS, TX - It's the peak of fire season and many west Texas fire stations are seeing a new threat to their fire department.
Inside the Andrews fire department, it's the middle of the day and completely empty. That’s because this station is unmanned and only run by a team of 45 volunteer firemen.
With a sound of the alarm, firemen leave their everyday jobs and show up to battle a blaze.
"As a paid fireman, you still love to do it… I guess it’s a job and a paycheck. But here it's a group of guys that love doing it for the community. That's the biggest difference," said Andrews Fireman Brent Vanzandt.
Vanzandt left his job as a paid fireman for the volunteer position.
Now in the peak of fire season, this fire department is facing a new threat, making sure enough staff is there to take on the challenge. This is especially difficult during the holidays.
"Everyday you don't know who showing up. It just depends on who's available at that time," said Andrews Fire Chief Joe Harper.
With a booming economy, the Andrews fire officials are seeing more work than ever before.
"With the economy growing and town growing, it just double everything for us," said Harper.
Now they're prepared to expand their station and take on more volunteers to fill these shoes. It’s a gratitude felt by the entire community. The Andrews Fire Department is one of more than 20 volunteer based fire departments in west Texas.
For more information on ways you can help out or become a firefighter there, call them at (432) 523- 3833.