Vandalism Hindering Local Fire Department

ROLLING OAKS—Theft and vandalism at the Rolling Oak Volunteer Fire Department is raising costs, and could interfere with efforts to respond, according to fire chief Perry Debord.

"Recently, while we were on calls, personal vehicles that were left at the station were broken into and vandalized," Debord said. "Now we have to put our vehicles inside after we pull the trucks out, which slows down our response time."

Other incidents include a break-in during which radios, first responder bags and bunker equipment were stolen. The value of the items were estimated at close to $5,000, but Debord believes the real cost could be much higher.

"If someone calls for help, we’d like for equipment to be there so we can answer the call," he said.

Other incidents include the theft of a central air-conditioning unit, damage to the overhead doors, a stolen mailbox and graffiti to the building and response vehicles.

"Being a volunteer fire department means we’re supported by the community," Debord said. "We have to have fund-raisers and solicit much of the operating funds we have, and these acts are increasing our costs."

The department asks that citizens be aware of activity near the fire department’s building and report anything suspicious to the Van Zandt County Sheriff’s Office.