| Updated: 2/07 10:32 am |
Published: 2/06 9:35 pm
|
Not a lot goes on in Avant, it's a pretty secluded community and that’s how folks living there like it.
But, it's also a problem. The Avant Fire Department used a handful of older fire trucks. However, the trucks were only capable of fighting brush fires, not structural fires.
Some of the trucks were fire hazards, because they were leaking gas. Then, about six months ago the old equipment backfired.
"To the homeowner, I’m sorry, we couldn't get there quick enough,” said Atkins.
Two houses burned down. The nearest help was 15 minutes away, in Skiatook.
Finally this department has something it can depend on: A new fire engine, or new to them. It's a 1989 model.
"When everyone is running out of a building we're running in," said Fire Chief Gene Atkins.
"This truck means the world to me," said Atkins.
Last year, Atkins took over as chief. One of his first promises to the community: a better fire truck.
"We found this in Spring Grove, Ill.,” said Atkins.
He paid cash for it.
"We received $10,000 from the Osage Nation. Without their support we couldn't do this," said Atkins.
The folks in Spring Grove also left behind about $4,000 worth of equipment, for free.
All of it gives people within the 65 square miles of coverage area more security.
"We love what we do. We may cuss at 2:30 in the morning when we get called out," said Atkins.
They're in no hurry to put the truck to work; instead they'd rather keep things quiet. It's what they're used to. They're also used to volunteering time it's what keeps everyone safe.
The Avant Fire Department will host breakfast at the Avant Community Building on February 11 at 7 a.m.
Also, the fire department will host a Rodeo Fundraiser June 2. For more information, call (918) 637-7249.
