A new fire apparatus rolled off the Tahlequah ferry dock this week, bound for its new home at Vashon Island Fire and Rescue’s Station 55, vashonbeachcomber.com reported.
The public will have a chance to see the new rig 9 a.m.-12 p.m. Saturday, Oct. 5, during the Station 55 open house. The event will include pancakes and coffee, Sparky the Fire Dog, a fire station bounce house, fire prevention exhibits, and tours of the new apparatus.
In early October, fire district commissioners voted unanimously to approve the purchase of the new pumper at a total cost of $886,000, including sales tax, the report said. The engine was purchased with funds taken from the district’s fleet reserve fund, resulting in a pre-payment discount of approximately $25,000, according to the report.
The new engine, a stock Pierce Enforcer pumper purchased from Hughes Fire Equipment in Tacoma, Washington, was readied for service by Pierce Manufacturing at its Florida plant.
“Exciting news!” Vashon Island Fire and Rescue said in a Facebook post. “Our brand-new fire engine arrived yesterday. Our team is thrilled to welcome this powerful addition to our fleet, and we can’t wait to share it with YOU!
“This new engine is a major upgrade for our team and the community,” said Chief Vinci. “With its increased water and foam capacity, and the power to deliver both more efficiently at fire scenes, it will significantly improve our ability to protect the island.”
This new rig was made possible thanks to the restoration of the fire levy in 2023.
Specifications
| Chassis | Enforcer™ |
| Body | Pumper |
| Actual Overall Height | 10′ 0″ |
| Engine | Cummins L9 |
| Horsepower | 450 hp |
| Front Suspension | TAK-4® Independent Front Suspension |
| Rear Suspension | Spring |
| Electrical System | Hard Wired |
| Foam System | Husky™ 3 |
| Pump | Waterous Midship |
| Pump GPM | 1500 gpm |
| Tank | Foam Water |
| Tank Size | 750 gallons |
