Wildland Fire Suppression Kits Available for Rural Volunteer Fire Departments
The Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division has announced that applications for wildland fire suppression kits are open through September 30. These kits are designed to provide rural volunteer fire departments with the necessary equipment to safely suppress wildfires.
Equipment Provided in the Kits
The wildland fire suppression kits include essential tools such as:
- Lightweight wildfire-resistant coveralls
- Wildland gloves
- Rakes
- Backpack water pumps
- Leaf blowers
These items are critical for volunteer fire departments, which are often the primary partner to Forestry Division crews in responding to and suppressing wildfires. The specialized gear enhances the safety and effectiveness of these emergency responders.
Eligibility and Application Process
Rural volunteer fire departments are eligible to apply, and the selection process involves scoring applications based on:
- Population of the fire district
- Number of square miles covered
- Average number of wildfires responded to annually
- Other relevant factors
Applications can be submitted online, and paper applications are available upon request for those who need them. Fire departments with questions can contact Kathryn Mahan-Hooten for assistance.
Delivery and Timeline
The selected departments will be notified in November, and the kits are expected to be delivered in the spring of 2025. This program has already shown success, with over 757 kits distributed since 2014, making a significant impact on the capacity of rural volunteer fire departments to respond to wildfires.
These efforts by the Arkansas Department of Agriculture’s Forestry Division will continue to support the critical work of volunteer fire departments in the state, enhancing their ability to protect communities and natural resources.
