During Tropical Storm Allison, Harris County and Southeast Texas experienced a flood that taxed emergency responders far beyond their capabilities and resources. The Eastex Freeway Volunteer Fire Department was called to assist several flooded citizens trapped in their homes. Thankfully, there were no fatalities within our district. The fire department lost one Military Truck that was being utilized for rescues. The Eastex Freeway Volunteer Fire Department lacked the equipment necessary to respond to certain neighborhoods in our district.
Chief Andy Bourque presented a proposal to Harris County Rural Fire Prevention District #10 to purchase rescue boats capable of helping flood victims, the board responded gracefully and allowed for the purchase of two (2) RescueOne connector boats.
One boat will be stationed at the Eastex Freeway Volunteer Fire Department on and the other boat will be stationed at Northeast Fire and Rescue. Both fire departments within Harris County Rural Fire Prevention District #10 will be capable of handling water rescues within the district or any other area were they might be called for assistance. We thank the community for the gracious support to the Eastex Freeway Volunteer Fire Department and look forward to serving them. The Eastex Freeway Volunteer Fire Department welcomes any fire department tours and visitors to the station.