Fulshear Simonton Fire Department: Get to Know Your Fire Department
The Fulshear Simonton Fire Department, proudly serving Fort Bend County ESD No. 4, has always been a reliable bastion of safety and support. From its modest beginnings in 1963, when firefighting equipment was merely a cattle sprayer owned by a local rancher, the department has grown exponentially. Today, it operates from three stations, equipped with state-of-the-art technology and managed by a dedicated team of 40 full and part-time firefighters, along with 5 life member volunteers.
The Fulshear Simonton Fire Department has continually evolved to meet the needs of the community. Born out of a tragedy when a fire devastated a home in the area, the Department has steadily expanded, integrating innovations, enhancing capabilities, and shouldering a broader scope of responsibility. The vision and dedication of past leaders, like Lee John Bentley Sr., who was elected fire chief after a spate of hay barn fires in 1973, have led the department to where it is today. Fort Bend County ESD No. 4 now covers over 106 square miles of territory, including your neighborhood.
ESD No. 4 District Boundary and Station Locations
Current fire chief, Gilbert "Herc" Meier Jr., has been at the helm of the department since 1975, playing a pivotal role in its transformations. Taking on this vital role at the tender ager of 17, his leadership has been instrumental in the Department's evolution, from the shift in the name to reflect their expanded outreach to the Fulshear-Simonton area, to the initiation of part-time paid firefighters due to increased emergency calls. But this summer, the community will bid farewell to Chief Meier, who plans to retire after 50 years of valiant service.
The Fulshear Simonton Fire Department is at a crucial juncture as it embarks on the search for a new fire chief. Just as it has evolved over the years to address the needs of the community, the leadership transition is seen as an opportunity for the Department's continued growth. Residents can rest assured that the legacy of commitment to their safety and well-being will continue, with a new leader guiding the Fulshear Simonton Fire Department to its future.
To learn more about the Fulshear Simonton Fire Department, visit their website at fsfd.org and follow them on Facebook for updates and announcements at facebook.com/FulshearSimontonFire. Have a question or need help? Email info@fsfd.org, call Fort Bend County ESD No. 4 at 281-533-0095 or the Fulshear Simonton Fire Department at 281-346-2800.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.
