PUSLINCH – Council here has approved the purchase of a new rescue truck and protective gear for township firefighters.
Puslinch Fire Chief Luis Gomes presented a report to council on March 24 outlining staff steps to assess the type of vehicle required to serve the force for the next 20 years.
He said they looked at two types of rescue trucks but decided the cab-over style would give more room in the back and allow six firefighters to sit comfortably inside.
There is also room to set up a command centre at emergency scenes.
As this vehicle will often respond to accidents on Highway 401, this one also has more safety features than rescue truck 35, which will be retired from service and sold, Gomes explained.
He said the protective gear includes replacing 22 self-contained breathing apparatus (SCBA) and 44 SCBA facemasks and 44 air cylinders.
Gomes said the masks are reusable and each firefighter will have their own. Air cylinders are used as needed and can be refilled at the fire station.
Council unanimously approved the purchase of the fire truck at $562,593, and the protective equipment for a total cost of $231,401.
