HOMETOWN HERO
Playing a vital role Local fire departments are key to keeping the community safe
STORY & PHOTOS BY JOSH CRISWELL
Volunteer fire departments play a
vital role for rural communities throughout Texas , and Walker County is no different .
Crabbs Prairie VFD is made up of a dedicated group of volunteers that are willing to lend a hand on a moment ’ s notice , whether it be for a fire , medical call , motor vehicle accident or any other scenario in which their help is needed .
“ We ’ re giving back to the community ,” Crabbs Prairie fire captain Stephen Countz said . “ Our guys are 100 % volunteer . They leave church , they leave their house , they leave Sunday dinner , they leave at 3 a . m . when their family is in bed ... when the alarm hits , they come forth .”
Countz notes that each member of the crew brings their own unique skill set to the table .
“ Everyone is different , and everyone has a job here ,” he added . “ Young or old , male or female , it doesn ’ t matter . We all pitch in . You may not do this job , but you ’ ll do this job — and that ’ s the diversity of this department .”
24 | HUNTSVILLE LIVING | NOVEMBER - DECEMBER 2020