If the MRAP vehicle recently acquired by PCSO looks like an expensive item meant for war, that’s because it was. MRAP stands for mine-resistant ambush protected, and the 2009 truck was, in fact, used by the Army in such places as Afghanistan. It was designed specifically to withstand roadside bomb attacks and ambushes, but in its new Phillips County role, the truck will serve as an all-weather, all-terrain search and rescue tool.

The custom-built truck is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, off-roading tires and an extendable turret that can pierce through airplanes in the event of a fire.

The Public Safety Division of the CCIA explained why the new technology is helping them offer safety and security for their passengers.

The county showed off the two pumper trucks, Wednesday morning.

The trucks have the most up to date equipment, including new lighting to alert other vehicles on the road and better communication devices for firefighters in the cab.

There's one new edition the firefighters say they're particularly proud of which is a dedication decal to Chief Doug Cooper who died in February.

It has been a long time in coming for the Papalote Volunteer Fire Department as they received a new, large brush truck with a grant from the Texas A&M Forest Service Rural Volunteer Fire Department Assistance Program.

The new brush truck has a 700-gallon water tank and foam capability that will help increase the department’s capability for fighting brush fires.  The new converted military tractor brush truck can better meet the growing demand of brush fires and help ensure the safety of the people and property.

Hubbard Creek VFD used the grant to purchase a new truck chassis that will be converted into a small brush truck, according to the release.

The fire department intends to add a slip-on unit to the truck with foam capability for quick response to fires in the rural and Hubbard Creek areas, according to the release.