Fire Prevention Week has wrapped up and the Errington Volunteer Fire Department (EVFD) used the occasion to show off its two brand-new fire trucks.
The EVFD, which has been proudly serving the community for more than 50 years, hosted an open house on Saturday at fire hall No. 1, located at 960 Errington Rd.
They joined fire departments from across Canada holding events to raise public awareness about the dangers of fire, how to prevent it and how to keep your family safe by having and practicing an escape plan.
The public enjoyed a BBQ and took part in plenty of games and activities including some water hose challenges and fire extinguisher tasks for mini-firefighters.
Fire chief Troy Bater said his crew was excited to present their new fire trucks to the community.
It took Hub Fire Engines in Abbottsford almost one year to build the new state-of-the-art engines and Bater stated they will be an incredible asset to their fire rescue operations.
The twin trucks are the only ones in the Oceanside area to have compressed air foam systems (CAFS) which have the ability to knock down a fire quickly and use less water.
With more seating capacity the custom cabs in the new trucks allow more volunteers to get to a fire call at the outset.
The trucks will serve the community for the next 20 years and will help support the EVFD superior shuttle rating which means cheaper fire insurance for Errington home owners.
Bater said it is important to let the public know about the vital work the department is responsible for in the community.
“We do a lot in the community and we are opening up the doors for people to come and have a look and see what we strive to do in the community,” said Bater.
The EVFD also fundraised at the event to generate some money for a couple of items on their wish list.
While they are proud of their new state-of-the-art trucks, the firefighters also have some respect for their first authentic fire engine and have been working to restore it.
The 1949 vintage truck which was purchased in Victoria several decades ago was even issued a ticket for going too slow on the Malahat when it was being driven to its new home in Errington. Money is also being raised for a memorial plaque to honor Ralph Christian one of the department’s late members.
Christian passed away in August, 2016 after a 17-year stint with the EVFD and a custom plaque will be installed on one of the new trucks to pay tribute to his service.
— Submitted by EVFD