The Cy-Creek Volunteer Fire Department is gearing up for a series of recruitment drives to bolster its forces.

The first of four events took place at Station 22 on Cypress N. Houston Road Oct. 19. The overall plan involves the department hosting four events on a quarterly basis over the course of a year, one at each of the department's four stations, said Gil Sanchez, a volunteer and district chief. Station 22 also serves as the department's headquarters.

People who show up to a recruitment drive get the opportunity to meet the fire fighters as well as take tours of the station and trucks and see demonstrations of how some tools are used. The department also provides lunch at no cost.

Firefighters were out in full force for the first event. Sanchez, who has been with the district for nine years, said the drive was a success.

"Overall response was good," he said. "We've had quite a few people come in, ask us questions and leave with applications."

Future recruitment drives are planned for January, April and July at the three remaining stations on N. Eldridge Parkway, Cypresswood Drive and Perry Road. Sanchez said recruitment efforts are always ongoing. The more volunteers who make themselves available to the department, the more effective the department becomes at doing its job.

"There is always great need for volunteers, but lately its been something that we've wanted to focus on," Sanchez said. "We're hopeful that the next few drives will bring in more people."

Training, uniforms, firefighting gear and communications equipment are provided to new recruits at no cost by the department, Sanchez said. For more information on volunteering and how to apply, visit

www.cypresscreekvfd.com.