Blackfalds has welcomed a new emergency vehicle to their fire department.

With $350,000 received through the Alberta Community Partnership grant program, the Town was able to purchase a new Rescue/Pumper truck. The remaining cost of the $550,000 purchase has been covered by the Town of Blackfalds and Lacombe County.

Mayor Melodie Stol said they jumped on the opportunity.

“It’s always really important to stay up-to-date with your fire equipment. If you fall behind you can end up finding yourself unable to respond.”

“Kicking the can down the road doesn’t get any cheaper for people, but when the province had a grant for collaboration between the County and the Town we jumped on it, and were successful.”

The new unit will replace the current Freightliner Pumper, which will remain in the hands of the fire detachment.

“We’ve decided to keep that as part of our inventory as a backup. We could have sold it at an auction, but they do not fetch as much at auctions as you would think they would.“

“As it continues to be certified successfully, the town has done all of the maintenance on it and it’s a good truck to keep on hand.”

Blackfalds Fire Department now has three Rescue/Pumpers in their station.

The latest truck will be ready for full-use in three to four weeks.