A new front-line fire engine is expected to improve safety, efficiency and reliability for firefighters responding to emergencies in the community.

While the truck may not look dramatically different from the engine it replaces, Regional Fire Chief Michael Bissell says several design changes will make a noticeable difference during emergency operations.

One of the most significant improvements is a lower hose bed, which allows supply hose to be deployed more easily and safely. The lower design also helps firefighters when reloading hose after a call, reducing physical strain and improving overall safety.

“It’s a safer setup for the operator,” Bissell says, noting the design helps reduce some of the hazards associated with active fireground operations.

Inside, the truck features a slightly larger cab with improved storage and cabinet space. The additional room allows important equipment to be stored securely and kept within easy reach of firefighters while responding to calls.

Safety enhancements were also a major consideration in the design of the new apparatus.
The engine is equipped with a full supplemental restraint system and rollover protection structure designed to better protect firefighters in the event of a collision or rollover. A HEPA filtration system has also been incorporated into the truck’s heating and ventilation system to help reduce exposure to toxic or carcinogenic contaminants that may be present in the cab following a fire response.

Because the engine serves as the department’s primary response vehicle, Bissell says the layout of tools and equipment is particularly important.

As the first apparatus leaving the hall for most emergencies, the truck has been designed to keep essential equipment in easily accessible locations. This allows firefighters to quickly retrieve tools upon arrival at a scene while also reducing unnecessary movement around the apparatus.

Those improvements can translate into faster, safer operations at a wide variety of emergency scenes, including structure fires, vehicle collisions and other incidents where quick access to equipment is critical.

For residents, the investment means more than simply replacing an aging vehicle.

Maintaining a modern front-line fire engine helps reduce the likelihood of mechanical failures during emergency responses. Fire apparatus routinely operate under demanding conditions while carrying large amounts of water, tools and rescue equipment.

Those stresses can lead to wear and mechanical issues more quickly than in a typical vehicle.
Keeping the fleet current helps improve reliability, reduce maintenance-related downtime and ensure firefighters have dependable equipment when emergencies occur.

For department members, however, the biggest benefit may be the sense of pride surrounding the new truck.

Bissell says firefighters have been heavily involved in planning the placement of equipment and organizing the apparatus to best suit operational needs.

“I am most excited about the pride shown by the members of the fire service toward the new engine,” Bissell says.

“The excitement of planning out the locations of tools and equipment, everyone giving input and being involved in the whole project.”

“Now there is another whole section of their county that actually has extrication tools, so they are very, very grateful,” the chief said.

Beyond the nationwide donation, the fire department also provided an update on local summer operations. Crews have responded to 195 calls for assistance so far this year, an increase of 21 calls compared to the same time last year.

Despite the higher call volume, the department has seen virtually no ground cover or wildfire calls this season.

Instead, crews have been kept busy responding to motor vehicle collisions and structure fires.
The department is also focusing on local community outreach. Recently, crews deployed their rescue boat to Sandy Lake to provide a safety net during a community kayaking practice. Knowing the fire department was out on the water in case of an emergency encouraged significantly more residents to sign up and try the sport.

Sara Driedger
Lakeside Leader