Report from the Coupland Volunteer Fire Department

The Coupland Volunteer Fire Department was formed in 1979 by members of the community. Until that time, Coupland relied on Taylor and Elgin for firefighting.

The new fire department purchased a 1949 International pumper truck. The "alarm" was raised by calling members of the fire department.

A Women's Auxiliary (no longer active) was formed by six ladies in 1980. The women raised money for the fire department through membership dues and fund raisers. The first Chili Supper was held in 1980, a tradition which continues today. The department's Fall fundraiser features barbeque dinners.

In 1981, with the help of the Women's Auxiliary, the department purchased the old Manville Water building, where the fire truck and equipment were being housed. Over the years, bunker gear, scanners, and a second truck were acquired.

In November of 1982 the department took on the responsibility of protecting the 25,000 acres that make up the Coupland School District, and the department was incorporated in 1983.

Today pagers and VHF/800mhz radios have replaced phone calls and CB radios. The mission of the fire department has evolved to include medical calls, hazardous materials, and terrorism, and the group handles over 100 calls per year. Fire safety and prevention are taught and encouraged by members of the department.

"Fire departments must be highly diversified, well-trained and well-equipped to take on the challenges they are presented with today," says Randy Kirk. "We receive some funding from Williamson County, but it's not enough to cover our expenses. For example, it costs more than $2,300 to equip each fire fighter with protective gear and pagers, and we need to update our equipment."

All members of the Coupland community are encouraged to support the fire department and the dedicated members who protect our lives and property from fires and other emergencies.

The CVFD always has a chili supper fund raiser.  Look for the dates on the Home page and Calendar of Events page