Parkland’s fire protection in the 1970s reflected the city’s limited water access and reliance on volunteer service. In 1973, Parkland acquired a large water tank truck because the Pine Tree Estates area had no water hydrants, making the tanker necessary for extinguishing house and field fires. In The Ranches, water was more available from the drainage canals. In 1975, Parkland resident Paul Gougleman joined the volunteer fire department and privately purchased a 3/4-ton pickup fire truck, the city’s only up-to-date fire engine. That truck became the first to respond to fires, and Gougleman arrived within minutes to assess conditions, take needed action, and determine the manpower required. He also paid for all fuel, oil, and repairs to the truck, and his volunteer service cost the city nothing. On November 13, 2009, the City of Parkland held a dedication ceremony for its Public Works and Fire Station facility at the northeast corner of Parkside Drive and Holmberg Road.