Hurricanes Caused Devastation and Loss

As we write this story there is a hurricane causing havoc to northwestern Cuba. Approaching the gulf. Hurricane Rafael intensified to a category 3 and as late in the season still you can see activity.

Other parts of the US in eastern Colorado had their first snowfall of 5 inches heavy wet snow that sticks to the ground and makes for treacherous road conditions keep emergency services busy. Many departments look to replace their fire trucks where others are not do fortunate with funding. Recently with Hurricane Helene communities and even fire departments destroyed. Along with that fire trucks and equipment gone, lost due to the storm.

Southside Volunteer Fire Department of Erwin Tennessee was one of many affected. From the goodness and gratitude Cambridge Rescue Fire Company donated its retired 1994 Pierce aerial tower ladder truck. This goes a long way for a city of Erwin Tennessee decimated by the former hurricane.

A fitting example of fire departments helping other fire departments and cities. Used fire trucks also when replacing old or equipment needed are far cheaper than new apparatus. For example, back in 2012 being the original and a part of truck managed to purchase and custom design an engine company for $375,000. Would have cost the city an average of 475,000 back then. Today 2024 prices for a similar engine would run between 875,000 or around 975,000 customs made. Even the most cost effective 75-foot aerial ladder runs around $1.25 million and up. Many departments around the country do not have that amount to just invest and that’s before equipment to add to the truck like jaws of life halogens or anything. Used fire trucks can save money in a fire department.

Source Fire and Aviation TV November 6, 2024

________________________________________________________________________________________________________________