DEQUINCY, LA (KPLC) -
The DeQuincy Fire Department received a new fire truck all thanks to the Hurricane Recovery Fund Act through the Calcasieu Parish Police Jury.
The new truck is something the department has been needing for more than 2 years, according to DeQuincy Fire Chief Johnny Copeland.
"It's a good feeling. All the firemen here in DeQuincy are excited about it. Ready to put it in service," Copeland said.
The new truck will replace the old 1961 truck and perhaps make the job a little easier for the volunteer firemen in DeQuincy. Although Chief Copeland is grateful for the new truck, there's still more that needs to be done.
Copeland said the department is in need of new gear and equipment. Most of it is more than 10 years old.
"It's stuff like that we just have to buy when we can through grants and funds. It's a struggle for everyone right now," he said.
In a recent study from the State Fire Marshal, rural fire departments show need in four areas: Recruitment of volunteer firefighters, enough adequate training, funding for equipment, and an inadequate water supply to fight fires.
"Membership has been down for quite a while," Copeland said. "It's hard to get people that have the time to do the training that's required for it. We require a lot of training."
The new fire truck helps, but it's only one thing that the DeQuincy Fire Department can scratch off their list of things they need.
Chief Copeland said they are going to continue to apply for more grants with hopes of getting money to go toward newer equipment and gear.
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