HISTORY of the BCFFA
The Big Country Firefighter's Association was organized by firefighters in 1988 after the Albany, TX fire, which burned thousands of acres. After the fire, it was obvious there was a need for improvement with communications and a need for better cooperation between area fire departments.
Today the BCFFA, which comprises of 32 fire departments in West Central Texas, helps members of fire departments to train together, share problems, solutions and resources. Many of the departments have the same problems with funding, personnel and equipment. Members are continually exchanging ideas and sharing their training. Meeting and training together allows the members to become better acquainted and better able to assist each other during major fires or emergencies. Few departments have the resources for major incidents without some assistance or mutual aid. It is not unusual to see several departments working well together at major incidents.
Communications have greatly improved over the past several years. Area departments monitor the activities of each other in order to provide assistance should it be needed. Several departments have started "automatic mutual aid response". In the event of a major incident, the next closest department automatically responds without being asked. This allows for quick response time, which can be vital. It's also comforting to know that it is available when needed.
Since the beginning, the BCFFA has been activated several times to assist with range fires and other natural disasters. The members of the BCFFA are constantly working and training together to save lives and protect property.
Announcements
Next meeting will be Apr 28, 7pm at the Tye Community Center. Host Department is Shackelford County.
TFS has 55gal barrels of foam available. Cost is $180.00/barrel.
Potosi will be hosting an ECA class. Contact Aaron Maxwell FMI.
There will be a traffic management class Mar 1 from 8am-5pm. Location to be announced. Seating is limited so sign up now! Cost is free.
The WCTCOG will be holding a workshop on changes coming to radio systems. All depts are encouraged to send a rep. Contact Bill Shaw FMI.
Updated Laws for VFDs
Trooper Sparky Dean's updated presentation, on Texas Laws governing volunteer firefighters, is now available on the "Downloads" page (available in Power Point and MS Word).
IS-700 National Incident Management System (NIMS)
Information on NIMS compliance can be found on the new NIMS Page. Please review this page for all NIMS related forms, guidance and tests.
Quick Links
Philip King (ECCA)
