In memory of
Curtis J. Cook

The Ponderosa VFD is prepared to handle many kinds of water emergencies. This includes heavy flooding (1996, 1998 and ‘01) and when people are trapped in the various streams and creeks in the area.

The Ponderosa VFD maintains water rescue equipment and boats that are equipped with outboard motors. This equipment is used by the department’s Swiftwater Rescue Team, which consists of members who have received specialized training at various water rescue schools.

The team also has a full range of individual gear, including wetsuits, personal flotation devices, helmets, gloves and many other items. Six rescue rope throw bags are provided for shore or boat based rescues. These are bags that contain either 35’ or 75’ of rope and can be thrown to a person in distress, while the rescuer holds onto one end of the rope.

Residents float down a flooded street in the Westador subdivision near I-45 and F.M. 1960.

A significant emphasis has been placed on flood rescue and evacuation, since we have several subdivisions that are prone to flooding during severe rains and tropical storms. Our water rescue gear includes an extra 18 life jackets that can be place on people while we are evacuating them.

Our water rescue team has assisted several of our neighboring departments with rescues and evacuations during the past few years. The PVFD is constantly working to improve our water rescue capabilities, purchasing additional equipment and sending team members to more advanced training.

In 2000, we purchased our newest rescue boat – a 14’ inflatable made by Zodiac at a cost of $5,000. In total, the PVFD has invested about $25,000 in equipment and training in order to protect our citizens against the dangers of swift water and floods.

Jim Luplow
Ponderosa VFD