The City of Fernies Fire and Rescue Services Department received a replacement fire truck that will greatly increase fire fighting capabilities. The new truck is a Rosenbauer Centurion side mount pumper assembled on a 2012 Freightliner 4 wheel drive, four door cab and chassis. In addition to its 4 wheel drive capability the new truck has many advanced features that will improve fire fighting efficiency and response times and enhance fire fighter safety.

The new truck replaces a 22 year old Ford HUB triple combination fire truck that had exceeded its service life and Fire Underwriters’ Survey certification for first line response vehicles. The replacement vehicle is expected to provide fire protection service in Fernie and area for the next 20 years.

The City had originally budgeted $400,000 for the replacement fire engine. Net of taxes the new Rosenbauer fire truck cost $334,243 or approximately $1,400/month over its expected 20 year service life. Under the terms of the rural fire protection agreement, property owners in the rural fire protection will contribute approximately 1/3 of the cost of the new engine.

Chief Ivany said, “With the new truck we will be able to provide more efficient and effective fire protection services, particularly in the rural fire protection area and in the City as development moves away from the core and into hillside areas. The evolution of features and usability of firefighting equipment over the last 2o+ years is remarkable and member safety will be enhanced with this new truck.”