Nearly four months after fires devastated Montgomery, Waller and Grimes counties, the Magnolia Volunteer Fire Department has made major strides in rebuilding and repairing.

"Things are getting back to normal," Chief Gary Vincent said. "The recovery process is ongoing and we're certainly not completely recovered, but we're comfortable that we're on schedule."

The process includes repairing, rebuilding and replacing fire gear, equipment and vehicles. Along with collecting insurance money for damaged equipment, the MVFD applied for state and federal reimbursement, which Vincent said could take several years to receive. They also received sizable donations from the community, which have been used to offset maintenance costs and replacement of damaged equipment.

"One of the reasons we're recovering as rapidly as we are was due to the generosity and support of the community," he said. "We are eternally grateful for their support."

Though the department is recovering rapidly and recent rains have increased the moisture content in the soil, Vincent said the department remains vigilant to the continued drought conditions.

"We're still in a state declaration of disaster, and we're still operating at an elevated risk," he said. "2011 was the second driest year on [state] record and 2012 is expected to replicate 2011."

Vincent said he urges people to use these winter months to clear underbrush and create a defensible area around their homes by removing vegetation near structures. As the community and fire department recovers, Vincent said he is pleased with the progress of his firefighters

"We've been very busy in the number of responses we've made and we're continuing to grow as we move forward in 2012," he said.

Fire victim resources still available

Thanks to an outpouring of community support following the tri-county fires in September, Magnolia nonprofit Society of Samaritans has a number of resources still available for families who lost their homes or other valuables from the fires, according to SOS board president Scott Wall.

Visa gift cards: SOS received a large monetary donation and divided it evenly into cards to be dispersed to the 70-plus families who lost their homes in the fire. Only one-third of the cards have been claimed.

Mattresses: SOS still has a number of donated beds in storage for families to pick up once they are in their new homes.

Storage fees/deposits: SOS continues to offer financial assistance for families needing to store items while their homes are being rebuilt, as well as money for deposits on new apartments or homes.

Outstanding needs:

Food: Because of the amount of food dispersed over the holidays, Wall said the group is in need of staples, such as spaghetti, spaghetti sauce, peanut butter, jelly, bread, rice and canned vegetables.

To donate or claim any of the above items, contact SOS at 281-259-8452.