Thanks in part to a grant, the Polk Township Rural Fire Department is a little better equipped to fight off field and grass fires.
The Missouri Department of Conservation Forestry Division awarded a $645 matching funds grant to the department for the purchase of protective gear and equipment for wildfires as well as structure fires.
The Tri-C Rural Fire Department also received a matching grant. Totaling more than $1,500, their grant also will go toward gear and equipment.
"Anytime we can get help with buying equipment it is beneficial to us because equipment is expensive to start with," said Phil Rickabaugh, director of the fire division of Maryville Public Safety and Polk Township. "It also protects our personnel so it's very beneficial."
The Polk Township Rural Fire Department used their funds to purchase a gas powered leaf blower to assist with grass and land fires. Rickabaugh said they will also purchase some protective clothing...
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