NORTH BEND, OR — The Southwest Oregon Regional Airport is among many organizations and agencies that have stepped forward to support the Hauser Rural Fire Department after a devastating fire earlier this month destroyed the department’s own station—along with all of its apparatus and life-saving equipment.

In response, the airport’s Aircraft Rescue and Firefighting (ARFF) Unit donated turnouts, boots, and helmets that were no longer in use to help the department rebuild.

ARFF Fire Chief Bob Hood, a long-time firefighter and rescue professional, understands the emotional toll of such a loss. “When a department that’s dedicated to saving others suddenly finds itself in need, it hits close to home,” said Hood.

The same day as the fire October 7, 2025, Hauser RFPD Captain, Lawrence Van Hoof, noted that the department responded to an emergency incident—showing their unwavering commitment to the community even in the face of their own tragedy.

The Hauser Rural Fire Department not only provides fire suppression but also performs vital Dunes Rescue operations across a 25-mile stretch of the Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area to Highway 101.

The Hauser RFPD Recovery account at Columbia Bank in Coos Bay has been set up to assist the department with monetary contributions as it works to recover from the fire and replace apparatus.